Manchester United Confirm Departure of Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof as Free Agents
Manchester United have officially announced that Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof will leave the club as free agents following the expiration of their contracts on June 30, 2025. The trio are among ten players departing Old Trafford this summer, marking a significant turning point for the club as it embarks on a major squad rebuild following a challenging 2024/25 season. The announcement, made via the club’s official channels, has sparked emotional reactions from fans, with veteran defender Jonny Evans receiving a particularly heartfelt ovation during the farewell.
Christian Eriksen: A Class Act Departs Christian Eriksen, the 33-year-old Danish midfielder, joined Manchester United in the summer of 2022 on a free transfer from Brentford, following his remarkable recovery from a cardiac arrest during Euro 2020. Over his three-year stint at United, Eriksen made 114 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 18 assists. Known for his vision, technical ability, and composure on the ball, Eriksen was a reliable presence in midfield, often deployed in a deeper role under Erik ten Hag and later Ruben Amorim. However, with his contract nearing its end and limited starts in the 2024/25 season, both player and club mutually agreed to part ways.
Eriksen expressed gratitude to the fans in a heartfelt social media post, writing, “It’s been an honor to wear the Manchester United badge. Thank you for the support and love you’ve shown me. I wish the club nothing but success in the future.” While his next destination remains unconfirmed, reports suggest interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, MLS, and several European sides, including a potential return to Ajax.
Jonny Evans: A Fan Favorite Bows Out Jonny Evans, the 37-year-old Northern Irish defender, leaves Manchester United as a club legend after two spells with the Red Devils. A product of United’s academy, Evans made his senior debut in 2007 and went on to win three Premier League titles, two League Cups, and a Champions League during his first stint. After stints at West Bromwich Albion and Leicester City, he returned to United in 2023 on a short-term deal, providing invaluable experience and depth to the backline.
Evans made 30 appearances in the 2024/25 season, often stepping in during injury crises, and his leadership was praised by teammates and staff alike. His departure was met with an emotional tribute from fans at Old Trafford, where he was given a standing ovation during the announcement. In a statement, Evans said, “This club is my home, and it always will be. I’m proud to have played for United and given everything for the shirt. I’ll be cheering you on as a fan now.”
Speculation about Evans’ future includes potential moves to Championship clubs or a transition into coaching, given his deep understanding of the game and leadership qualities.
Victor Lindelof: The End of an Era Swedish centre-back Victor Lindelof, 30, also departs after eight years at Manchester United, having joined from Benfica in 2017 for £31 million. Lindelof made 259 appearances for the club, scoring four goals and contributing seven assists. A versatile defender capable of playing as a centre-back or right-back, Lindelof was a consistent squad player but struggled to cement a starting role in recent seasons due to competition from younger talents like Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro.
Lindelof’s departure was anticipated, as his contract talks stalled earlier in the year. In a farewell message, he thanked the club and fans, stating, “Manchester United has been a huge part of my life. I’m grateful for the memories and the chance to play for this incredible club. I wish you all the best.” Sources indicate that Lindelof is attracting interest from clubs in La Liga and Serie A, with Real Betis and AC Milan reportedly monitoring the situation.
A Broader Rebuild at Old Trafford The departure of Eriksen, Evans, and Lindelof is part of a larger exodus, with ten players leaving Manchester United as free agents this summer. The club finished the 2024/25 Premier League season in a disappointing mid-table position, prompting incoming manager Ruben Amorim and the board to prioritize a squad overhaul. Other players reportedly leaving include high-profile names from the youth setup and fringe squad members, though the club has not yet released the full list.
Manchester United are now preparing for a post-season tour of Asia, where they will face top clubs in a series of friendlies aimed at integrating new signings and youth prospects. The club is also expected to be active in the transfer market, with targets rumored in midfield, defense, and attack to bolster the squad for the 2025/26 campaign.
Fan Reactions and What Lies Ahead The news of the departures has elicited mixed emotions from Manchester United supporters. While many fans expressed sadness over losing experienced players like Eriksen, Evans, and Lindelof, others see it as a necessary step to refresh the squad and address recent underperformance. Social media posts on X reflect the sentiment, with one fan writing, “End of an era, but it’s time for a new chapter. Thank you, Christian, Jonny, and Victor!” Another added, “Jonny Evans deserves a statue for his loyalty and grit. Proper United man.”
As Manchester United look to the future, the focus will be on blending youth and experience under Amorim’s guidance. The club’s hierarchy is reportedly backing the manager with significant funds to reshape the squad, with an emphasis on players who fit his high-pressing, dynamic system. For now, fans will bid farewell to three players who, in their own ways, left a mark on Old Trafford.
