Inter’s failure to offload Christian Eriksen in the January transfer window was the spark that reignited the midfielder into becoming a key figure in their Scudetto challenge, according to Italian journalist Paolo Condo.
The Denmark international joined Inter from Tottenham Hotspur in January 2020 but failed to make an impact during his first 12 months at the club, prompting the Nerazzurri to consider selling him and target Paris Saint-Germain’s Leandro Paredes.
However, Eriksen has since become an important part of coach Antonio Conte’s team and helped them to the brink of the Scudetto, scoring the opener in today’s 2-0 win over Crotone.
Appearing on Italian television channel Sky Sport Italia earlier today, Condo argued that Inter’s inability to offer cash for Paredes meant they were forced to stand by Eriksen, and he duly stepped up to the responsibility.
“The turning point was the freekick in the Coppa Italia (to beat AC Milan). It was also the fact that Inter could not move in the transfer market in January. We had seen all the possibilities with Paredes, but the fact that PSG wanted cash blocked the deal,” Condo claimed.
“That was one of the key moments. It is no coincidence that there, from when the second half of the season began, Inter had the decisive break that will lead them to win the title.”
Condo also argued that Eriksen had not yet reached his full potential in an Inter shirt and could have the impact of a new signing next season.
“Eriksen has shown 50% of his potential, I’m an ‘Eriksiano’. He’s improving and he could be the great acquisition of next season.
“Conte is certain to rely on him, Eriksen is convinced that he can do a different and important job. Nobody in the Inter squad has his ability to play that role,” Condo added.