Christian Eriksen Shines and Falters in Europa League Draw

Christian Eriksen played a pivotal role for Manchester United both positively and negatively as they stumbled in their Europa League opener against Twente, the club where their manager Erik ten Hag, grew up. Eriksen initially put United ahead with a superb strike from inside the penalty area. However, his night took a turn when Sam Lammers caught him in possession just outside the box.

Lammers capitalized on the mistake, equalizing with a powerful shot that sailed past goalkeeper Andre Onana. Despite having chances to secure a win including a strong effort from Joshua Zirkzee that Twente’s goalkeeper Lars Unnerstall saved brilliantly, United couldn’t find a second goal. Bruno Fernandes and substitute Kobbie Mainoo also came close but Mainoo’s penalty appeal was denied.

After finishing at the bottom of their Champions League group last season, this draw was not the ideal start for United ahead of a challenging trip to Porto on October 3. Nevertheless, they remain unbeaten in four matches with the last two ending in draws. In a bid to impress interim England manager Lee Carsley, Marcus Rashford started the match and showcased his skills including a dazzling moment against Ricky van Wolfswinkel.

He had a productive first half, making several threatening runs and providing key passes although he couldn’t find the final product. Rashford’s performance drew applause from fans contrasting with the boos that followed the final whistle. Eriksen’s impressive goal, his third of the season stood out as United’s best moment. However, his failure to regain possession during Twente’s equalizer marred his contribution.

As Christian Eriksen adapts to a renewed role in the squad, he will aim to build on this mixed performance moving forward.