Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has delivered a firm message to winger Antony, stating that the Brazilian must prove his worth in training if he wants more game time this season.
Antony, who has made just one appearance so far this campaign, has found himself on the fringes of the squad, and Ten Hag has made it clear that no player is guaranteed a spot in the starting XI. The Dutch coach emphasized that hard work, commitment, and performance in training are the keys to earning minutes on the pitch.
“We have training every day, and the players have to earn the right to play,” Ten Hag said, addressing questions about Antony’s limited appearances.
“When players are doing the right things in training, when the attitude is good and they show performance, then they will earn the right to play.”
Ten Hag’s message is a clear warning not only to Antony but to the entire squad, highlighting the fierce competition within the team. With attacking options like Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes in strong form, and the arrival of new signing Rasmus Højlund, Antony will need to step up his efforts to break into the lineup.
The Brazilian’s inconsistency since his high-profile move from Ajax has drawn criticism, and it’s evident that Ten Hag’s patience is running thin.
As United navigates a busy fixture schedule, Antony will have to prove his value if he wants to avoid extended spells on the bench.
The battle for starting spots at Manchester United is heating up, and Ten Hag’s no-nonsense approach ensures that only those who deliver on the training ground will see the pitch.