Erik Ten Hag Sends Message To Antony After Brighton Incident
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has told Antony to not ‘go over the top’ and stay focused on his game after bust-up during last week’s Brighton defeat.
Antony cut a frustrated figure for the majority of United’s eventual 1-0 loss at the hands of the Seagulls on Thursday evening, with things boiling over in the second half when he was booked for a petulant challenge on Alexis Mac Allister and subsequent pushing match with Lews Dunk.
Speaking to the press this week, Ten Hag praised Antony’s ‘passion’ but called for his forward reign it in at times.
“I think he is special. It [his passion] is his strength. Of course, there’s a certain level, you have to control it. You need passion, desire to win your games and to win medals, and I think he is very strong willed. He’s very ambitious,” the Dutchman explained.
“As I say, don’t go over the top. Stay focused on your game, and what the team needs and doing that he is a great player. His improvement is quite obvious.”
The Brazilian’s performances have somewhat divided opinion since he made an £85m move to Manchester United during the 2022 summer transfer window.
Some fans have been irritated by the forward’s flashy style of play, while others have noted that Antony has provided some telling contributions for his new club throughout his maiden campaign in England, notably scoring winners against Arsenal and Barcelona.
Ten Hag and United will be hoping Antony can provide another telling contribution when the Red Devils face off against West Ham at the London Stadium on Sunday evening.
