Erik ten Hag has informed Antony that he must “earn the right” to commence for Manchester United.
Antony is the second priciest acquisition in United’s history at £86 million, behind the £89 million club record signing of Paul Pogba.
The Brazilian star has been disappointing throughout his two seasons at United, having played only one minute this season, namely as an 89th-minute replacement in a 2-1 loss to Brighton.
The winger aims to secure his inaugural start of the season tomorrow in United’s third round Carabao Cup match against League One Barnsley at home.
However, Ten Hag cautioned Antony—who is presently excluded from the United lineup due to Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Amad Diallo—that he must demonstrate his merit for a starting position.
“Tomorrow, the line-up will be revealed,” stated Ten Hag when enquired about Antony’s situation.
“Daily training is mandatory, and players must earn their position.” Players will participate when their attitude is positive and they have strong results in training.
Ten Hag secured the Carabao Cup in his inaugural season at United, concluding the club’s six-year trophy drought, and subsequently achieved the FA Cup in the following term.
In this context, Ten Hag emphasised the significance he places on the Carabao Cup and his commitment to securing the trophy at Wembley once more.
“Winning trophies is paramount, but my discourse extends beyond this; you are emphasising the necessity of victory,” stated Ten Hag.
“Undoubtedly, we are pursuing a trophy and we approach it with utmost seriousness.”
“I would not characterise the FA Cup and Carabao Cup as insignificant.” They are substantial. I observe the focus from all teams, owners, and managers when they secure trophies, such as Liverpool did last year, and I witness all teams competing for it. We desire the identical outcome. In football, securing trophies is paramount, and our objective is to triumph in every match, if feasible.
Luke Shaw, Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, Leny Yoro, and Victor Lindelof are still incapacitated due to injury, while Ten Hag remains ambiguous over their comeback timeline.
“Luke Shaw is making progress, but he is not yet prepared for selection,” stated Ten Hag.
We possess a conceptual timeline for his readiness; nonetheless, development is contingent upon several elements, rendering suggestions impractical, since plans may either expedite or hinder advancement.
Hojlund, Mount, Yoro, and Lindelof are unprepared for tomorrow. We shall observe; our advancement will persist.
“However, I anticipate experiencing selection dilemmas.” Last year, I experienced headaches; nevertheless, no players were available. I own several players at my disposal, allowing for selection on a game-by-game basis; yet, rotation is necessary due to the extensive number of games to be covered. It is a pleasant headache.
