Christian Eriksen collapsed in the 42nd minute of Denmark's opening UEFA Euro 2020 game against Finland due to a cardiac arrest about 18 months ago. After receiving CPR and defibrillation on the field, he was stretchered off the field and transported to Rigshospitalet Hospital. According to The Athletic, Eriksen turned to his wife on the way and stated, "I might as well leave my boots here."

But this isn't a story about a setback. It is a story of resilience and perseverance. In the present, Christian Eriksen is enjoying his favourite sport, playing for the mighty Red Devils in the Premier League and representing Denmark in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.

Eriksen became the first Premier League player to play with an ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) fitted when he signed for Brentford on the final day of the 2022 January Transfer Window. Eriksen went on to score in the Premier League against Chelsea in April, helping Brentford to a 4-1 victory.

Eriksen is a centre midfielder (Mezzala for the FM nerds) noted for his technical abilities and game knowledge. Having played for Ajax, Tottenham Hotspur, and Inter Milan, the Danish midfield maestro has learned his trade from some of the world's top managers. The 30-year-old has also been hailed as a great distributor of the ball and as a set-piece specialist.

Labeling Eriksen's playing style does not do him justice or his versatility.

The Danish midfielder, who has 117 national team caps, has been in excellent form since joining Manchester United. Eriksen is averaging a xA of 0.16 per 90 minutes in the Premier League this season and has 4 assists to his name. His greatest performance came right before the World Cup against Fulham in the league. Eriksen scored in the 15th minute and then set up Alejandro Garnacho in the 90+3' minute.

Eriksen's return tale should include not just his incredible recovery from cardiac arrest, but also his exploits for Manchester United.

Can Eriksen guide this Danish side to glory in Qatar?

Never say never.

Written By: Atanu Wadhwa