Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has laid down the gauntlet for Brazil winger Antony, insisting that the £82 million signing must “earn the right” to play for the club. Antony, who joined United from Ajax in 2022, is the second-most expensive player in the club’s history, trailing only Paul Pogba.
Despite his hefty price tag, Antony’s performance has been underwhelming. With just five goals and three assists in 55 Premier League appearances, his contribution last season was particularly disappointing, managing only a single goal and one assist as United finished a dismal eighth. This season, the 24-year-old has seen a mere minute of competitive action, coming on as a substitute in the match against Brighton last month. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Amad Diallo have been preferred in the starting lineup, each finding the back of the net this season.
As Manchester United prepares for Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Barnsley, Antony is hopeful for more involvement. However, Ten Hag has clarified that the player’s destiny is in his own hands. “He’s impatient,” Ten Hag remarked. “He wants to play. But in top football, there are laws. You pick the team that has the most chance to win the game, the one with the best dynamic, the best chemistry. Players have to fight for their positions.”
The pressure on Antony has intensified, especially with the impressive performances of his teammates. Rashford, Garnacho, and Amad have all scored this season, and Antony was even linked with a move to Turkish club Fenerbahce before the transfer window closed. Ten Hag acknowledged the competition, stating, “The other players are doing so well – they’re contributing. He has to get over them. He has to earn the right in training.”
Ten Hag’s comments emphasize a merit-based approach to team selection. “We have everyday training and the players have to earn the right to play,” he emphasized. “When players do the right thing in training, when the attitude is good, when they show performance in training, they will earn the right to play.”
The upcoming cup game against Barnsley at Old Trafford will be a crucial test for Antony. Ten Hag hinted at potential changes in the lineup, saying, “You will see what the line-up will be.” This statement leaves the door open for Antony to prove his worth and reclaim his place in the team.
