What is going on with Christian Eriksen at Tottenham?

Andy Clark
When Christian Erisken joined Tottenham from Ajax in 2013 for £11.5m it looked like money well spent. Over the next six years, the Dane would prove to be a crucial part of Tottenham’s team, contributing a staggering 51 goals and 62 assists (and counting) in the Premier League during his time in North London. He was the only real success story from the Gareth Bale money. The truth is, though, his Spurs career is all but over. The way it’s ended is a real shame. Every time he steps on a football pitch he looks disinterested. He strolls about, seems emotionless when goals go in at either end and is a shadow of his former self.  

Jose Mourinho Expects Eriksen to Leave Spurs

Spurs manager José Mourinho admitted he knows there’s a problem. He couldn’t deny it, to be fair – it’s clear as day for everyone to see. “If you ask me if this is the best Christian Eriksen, I have to be honest and say no. I’m not an idiot, I’ve been in football for many years. It’s normal that a player in this situation doesn’t perform at the highest level.” Those were the words of Mourinho a couple of weeks back, now. The situation he’s referring to is that Eriksen simply wants to leave. He’s not been the first name on the team sheet since Mourinho came in – all season, really. Maybe it’s just selection, but it’s probably because of the contract situation. How can a player be picked regularly that really doesn’t want to be there? He has been called upon, but that’s just because he’s so good he simply can’t just be ignored. It’s made it awkward for everyone, though. Eriksen so clearly doesn’t want to get injured he’s not trying. He’s bottling tackles. He’s not running. He doesn’t care enough to get emotionally involved in the game. It’s painful viewing. There were rumours earlier on in the season that there was a personal rift between Eriksen and Jan Vertonghen – they were quickly shut down by Eriksen himself – but it’s all been a bit of a mess.  

Inter Milan Move looks On

Eriksen’s contract expires in the summer, so it will all be over then at the latest. He’s handed in a transfer request this month, to no one’s surprise, and offers are coming in from Inter Milan and others. Milan is his preferred destination, however. He’s made that pretty clear. At this point, it just depends if Spurs think the benefits will be bigger keeping him on until the end of the season and losing him for free rather than letting him go for cheap now. There doesn’t seem much point keeping him on. He’s not contributing anymore and it would only make the situation worse in terms of his own attitude. It would equal less money, too. It should be done quickly. It’s been a disaster for everyone. Read More: Get the latest Premier League news and opinion.