Christian Eriksen, the Manchester United midfielder, recently shared a lighthearted anecdote about Cristiano Ronaldo not being pleased with him taking a free kick for the club. According to Eriksen, earlier in the 2022/23 season, he took a free kick instead of Ronaldo, which apparently didn't sit well with the Portuguese superstar.
Eriksen, who joined Manchester United last summer as a free transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, had the opportunity to play alongside Ronaldo for only a few months before the latter's departure from the club in November. During their time together, Eriksen revealed that there were multiple players capable of taking free kicks, including himself, Bruno Fernandes, and Marcus Rashford. Ronaldo, of course, was also part of this group.
The Danish international explained, "Even now at the club, we have multiple takers who, if he [Ronaldo] had a good day, he is going to have it. [Eriksen, Fernandes] and Rashy." Eriksen humorously admitted that he took a free kick instead of Ronaldo on one occasion, and it seems that Ronaldo wasn't too pleased about it. Eriksen's comment suggests that there is a friendly competition among the players regarding free-kick responsibilities.
He further explained the dynamic, saying, "But then, with the three we have now, it is where we are on the pitch, how people are feeling, so it is like 'You had the last one, I will have the next one.'" This highlights the understanding and flexibility within the team when it comes to determining who will take free kicks, with the decision being based on factors such as positioning on the field and the players' confidence.
Eriksen's anecdote offers a glimpse into the camaraderie and light-hearted banter that exists within the Manchester United dressing room. While the incident may have momentarily displeased Ronaldo, it is clear that there is a healthy level of competition and respect among the players when it comes to sharing set-piece responsibilities.
