Christian Eriksen (33, Manchester United) has ultimately decided to leave Manchester United. After this season, he is expected to depart from the Premier League in search of new challenges.

British outlets The Athletic and BBC reported on the 18th (Korea time) that "Christian Eriksen plans to leave Manchester United when his contract expires in June 2025. He has not heard any discussions regarding a new contract from the club and noted that he is uncertain where he will play next season."

Currently called up to the Denmark national team, Eriksen opened up about his future in an interview with Danish media TV 2 Sport. He said, "I have not heard any news from the club. Therefore, I expect our journey together to come to an end. My contract will expire this summer, and I am ready for a new challenge. I'm doing fine," indicating a de facto split.

He added, "I haven't decided where I will go yet. I am waiting to see what offers may come. I won't make any hasty decisions, but if the right opportunity arises, I will accept it."

Eriksen ruled out the possibility of moving to another club within the Premier League. He emphasized, "I don't plan to stay in England. I also have no plans to go to the United States. I don't want to go that far away," adding, "I want to stay in Europe, but it is still too early to return to Denmark."

Regarding a return to Denmark, he stated, "I feel that returning to my hometown is important when it comes to wrapping up my family and career. But it is not the right time yet. My goal is still to play for the national team, so returning to Denmark right now is not appropriate."

Given these statements, Eriksen is likely to pursue new challenges in another league within Europe. His former team, AFC Ajax, is also one of the strong options. The prestigious Dutch club Ajax even attempted to sign Eriksen last summer, but the deal fell through for financial reasons. Eriksen also mentioned, "I don't rule out any possibilities. I will watch to see what decisions Ajax makes this summer."

Eriksen has played as an effective midfielder at Manchester United, but his position has become shaky since the appointment of head coach Ruben Amorim. Amorim employs a tactic requiring high energy, which Eriksen, now in his mid-30s, has found difficult to execute fully. Ultimately, he has fallen out of contention for a starting spot this season, resulting in decreased playing time, and Manchester United has also stated that they do not plan to renew his contract.

There are concerns that Eriksen may even retire at the end of this season. Legendary Danish midfielder Thomas Gravesen expressed, "Eriksen's time at Manchester United is 100% over. I am worried that his career may completely end."

Eriksen dismissed the possibility of retirement. He stated, "I am still ready to play. I plan to pursue new challenges, and I will find the right team," affirming his commitment to continue his playing career.

During his time at Tottenham, Eriksen built the "DESK Line" with Son Heung-min, Dele Alli, and Harry Kane, leading the team to its peak. His creative passing and sharp kicking ability resulted in numerous goals, and he thrived under head coach Mauricio Pochettino in both the league and Champions League.

His career has also included dramatic moments. He collapsed due to a cardiac arrest during the Euro 2020 match against Finland in 2021, shocking soccer fans worldwide. However, he miraculously survived, and after having an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator inserted, he returned to the Premier League with Brentford in 2022. He then transferred to Manchester United, once again elevating his status as a top midfielder.

Now, Eriksen is preparing to conclude his 11-year journey in the Premier League. Once his contract with Manchester United expires, he is likely to leave England and continue his career in a new league within Europe. Many teams across Europe, including Ajax, are keeping an eye on his movements, and the key factor will be what proposals come during the transfer market.

Fans are focused on whether he can create yet another miracle with a new team.

[OSEN = Reporter Jeong Seung-woo]