Antony 'must earn the right to play', says Ten Hag

Victor Petkov

Head of Content

Last Updated: Sep 17 | 1:12 AM

4 min read

Antony ‘must earn the right to play’, says Ten Hag

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Manchester United manager prefers to use Rashford, Garnacho and Diallo on the wings this season

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made it clear that Brazil winger Antony must “earn the right” to play for the club, amid growing competition for places in the squad. Antony, who was signed from Ajax for £82m in 2022, has struggled to make a significant impact at Old Trafford, registering just five goals and three assists in 55 Premier League appearances.

🚨🇧🇷 Erik ten Hag: “Antony has to bounce back and he has the ability to do it”.

“If he is doing the right things he can make competition with the young talents we have”. pic.twitter.com/2E8H3us1Ok

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 16, 2024

The 24-year-old has seen limited game time this season, featuring for just a single minute in a match against Brighton, with Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Amad Diallo currently preferred in attacking positions. While Antony is eager for more playing time, Ten Hag emphasized that performance in training and team dynamics are key factors in selecting the lineup.

“When the attitude is good, then they’ll earn the right to play.”

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Erik ten Hag hints at Antony’s future in the starting XI at Manchester United 🔴 pic.twitter.com/2GUiwmvLLu

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 16, 2024

“He’s impatient, he wants to play,” Ten Hag said. “But in top football, there are laws. You pick the team that has the best chance to win the game, with the best dynamic and chemistry. Players have to fight for their positions.”

With Rashford, Garnacho, and Amad all scoring this season, Antony faces increased pressure to deliver, particularly after being linked with a move to Turkish club Fenerbahce before the transfer window closed. As United prepare for their Carabao Cup third-round tie against Barnsley, Ten Hag hinted that Antony could have a chance to prove himself but stressed that players must earn their opportunities.

“You will see what the line-up will be,” Ten Hag said ahead of the match. “When players do the right thing in training, when the attitude is good, and they show performance, they will earn the right to play.”