Erik ten Hag Challenges Antony to Earn Starting Role Amid Fierce Manchester United Competition
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has issued a clear challenge to £86 million winger Antony, emphasizing that hard work and top-notch performances in training are necessary for him to secure a place in the starting lineup. As Manchester United prepare for their Carabao Cup third-round tie against Barnsley, Antony’s future at Old Trafford seems to hang in the balance. Since his high-profile transfer, the Brazilian has struggled to find consistent form, and competition for attacking spots remains tough.
In this article, we will explore Antony’s journey at Manchester United so far, the current competition within the squad, and what he needs to do to impress Ten Hag and earn a starting spot.
Antony’s Struggles Since Arriving at Manchester United
When Antony signed for Manchester United in 2022 for a staggering £86 million, expectations were high. The young Brazilian winger had shown flashes of brilliance during his time at Ajax, where he worked under Ten Hag and was seen as a rising star. However, things have not gone according to plan since his move to Old Trafford.
Antony’s performances in his debut season were inconsistent, with moments of skill overshadowed by long spells of ineffectiveness. Injuries and adaptation to the physical demands of the Premier League contributed to his struggles. Despite his hefty price tag, Antony has yet to deliver on the promise he showed during his time in the Eredivisie.
In the current 2024/25 season, Antony has found himself further down the pecking order. With fierce competition from Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Amad Diallo for starting positions in United’s attack, the pressure is on Antony to prove he belongs in the starting XI.
Competition for Places at Manchester United
Manchester United’s attacking options have significantly strengthened under Ten Hag’s management. With a mix of youth and experience, the team boasts a wealth of talent in the forward positions. Marcus Rashford continues to be a key figure, contributing with goals and assists. Alejandro Garnacho, the young Argentine winger, has burst onto the scene and quickly become a fan favorite, offering creativity and pace down the left flank.
Another emerging talent is Amad Diallo, who has impressed both in training and during his loan spells. The Ivorian winger is now a genuine contender for first-team football and is pushing Antony for a starting spot.
With such strong competition, Erik ten Hag has made it clear that players must earn their place on merit. Speaking about Antony’s situation, Ten Hag stated, “We have training every day, and the players have to earn the right [to start]. When the attitude is good and performances in training are strong, then they will play.”
Ten Hag’s approach is straightforward: no player is guaranteed a place in the team based on reputation or transfer fee alone. Each player must demonstrate consistent effort and high-level performances in training to be selected.
The Carabao Cup – Antony’s Opportunity to Shine?
The Carabao Cup provides an ideal opportunity for fringe players like Antony to showcase their skills and make a case for more regular involvement in the first team. With Manchester United set to face Barnsley in the third round of the cup, Antony will be hoping to earn a place in the starting XI.
Given that Ten Hag has already won the Carabao Cup during his first season at Manchester United, the Dutch manager is expected to take the competition seriously. He has spoken about his desire to continue winning trophies, and while there may be rotation in the squad for the Barnsley match, the stakes remain high.
For Antony, this match represents a critical moment in his Manchester United career. A standout performance could help rebuild his confidence and signal to Ten Hag that he is ready to compete for a regular starting spot in the Premier League and Champions League.
What Antony Needs to Improve to Succeed at Manchester United
There is no doubt that Antony possesses immense potential. His pace, dribbling ability, and flair on the ball make him a dangerous winger when he is at his best. However, to succeed in the Premier League and earn Ten Hag’s trust, Antony needs to work on several key areas of his game.
- Consistency: One of the biggest criticisms of Antony’s performances so far has been his inconsistency. While he has shown glimpses of his talent, he has not been able to deliver week in and week out. Improving his consistency in matches and training will be essential if he wants to secure a regular spot in the starting XI.
- End Product: Although Antony is excellent at taking on defenders, he needs to improve his decision-making in the final third. His crossing, shooting, and passing in key moments must become more reliable to contribute more goals and assists to the team.
- Work Rate: Ten Hag has placed a strong emphasis on work rate and defensive contributions from all his attacking players. Antony will need to show that he can track back, press, and work off the ball to fit into Ten Hag’s high-intensity system.
- Mental Toughness: Adapting to the Premier League can be mentally challenging, especially with the weight of a hefty transfer fee. Antony needs to develop resilience and focus on improving his performances without letting the pressure affect him.
Conclusion: Antony’s Future at Manchester United Hangs in the Balance
As Manchester United prepare for their Carabao Cup tie against Barnsley, Antony finds himself at a crossroads in his United career. The £86 million winger, once hailed as a potential star, now faces the challenge of proving himself amid fierce competition for places in the squad.
Erik ten Hag’s message is clear: Antony must earn his spot through hard work and performances in training. With competition from Rashford, Garnacho, and Diallo, Antony has no room for complacency.
The upcoming Carabao Cup match offers Antony a platform to impress and stake his claim for more playing time. Whether he can rise to the occasion and reclaim his place in Manchester United’s starting XI remains to be seen. For now, the ball is firmly in Antony’s court.
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