Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag reportedly “ripped into” Brazilian winger Antony multiple times last season. This happened after player disobeyed his instructions.
The club signed the Brazilian for around £86 million in 2022 and he reunited with ten Hag under whom he had thrived at Ajax. However he has struggled to meet expectations. He has contributed just 16 goals in 82 appearances.
Antony’s defiance was evident during two notable incidents. In a dramatic 4-3 FA Cup victory over Liverpool, he made a “mind blown” gesture. This occurred when ten Hag asked him to fill in at left-back.
He repeated same gesture two months later in a 1-0 loss to Arsenal where he was when given same instruction.
According to The Athletic, these actions prompted ten Hag to “rip into Brazilian” He bluntly told him he had to play where he was told. The Dutchman also criticized the united star harshly following a lackluster performance off bench.
This occurred in a 2-0 win over Everton and Antony was reportedly “visibly affected” by comments.
Public Support For Antony Despite Private Criticism
Despite these internal conflicts, ten Hag has publicly defended him emphasizing his potential and resilience. In February he described Antony as “unstoppable” when at his best. “With Antony, I backed him for long time” ten Hag told reporters.
“I know his abilities. Great abilities. I know from past he is unstoppable. No defender can stop him. He is one of quickest in first 10 yards. When he plays that game I’m sure he will perform.”
Ten Hag acknowledged Antony’s challenging period yet expressed confidence in his ability to rebound. “He’s resilient. He’s character and he will fight back. I back him. He now has to wait for his chance. Once he is there he has to pick up” ten Hag added.
The contrasting private and public approaches by ten Hag highlight the complexity of managing high-profile players like Antony especially in club with Manchester United’s stature and expectations.
Whether Antony can rise to the challenge and fulfill his potential under ten Hag’s guidance remains to be seen. But the manager’s firm stance on discipline coupled with his public support suggests balanced strategy aimed at getting the best out of his players.
