Erik ten Hag retains support for long-term student Antony as Manchester United reportedly prepare to field offers for the struggling winger in the summer transfer window. Antony has slipped down Ten Hag’s pecking order in recent weeks, intensifying suggestions that his future at Old Trafford looks bleak.
The Dutchman brought him to United from Ajax when he became manager in the summer of 2022, splashing £86million for his signature.
But Antony failed to set the world alight in his maiden campaign on English shores, and he has regressed further this season.
The 24-year-old has failed to register a single goal or assist in 20 Premier League appearances this term, surrendering his starting berth to Alejandro Garnacho.
In fact, his sole goal and assist in 26 games in all competitions came against League Two side Newport County in the FA Cup.
According to the Mail, United are ready to cut their losses and sell Antony in what promises to be a transformative first summer under the INEOS regime.
However, the Red Devils could face losing more than half of the £86m transfer fee that made Antony the second-most expensive signing in the club’s history less than two years ago.
Ten Hag still has faith his major transfer punt will come good. The Mail add that he believes the Brazil international has the ability to change his fortunes at United.
But he has reduced Antony’s opportunities this season, handing him a start in just one of the last eight games when he contributed to the win at Newport.
The No. 21 was among the substitutes for Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Fulham. Omari Forson, 19, was notably chosen ahead of him before Amad Diallo was called on earlier. Antony played the final minute of stoppage time.
Ten Hag has admitted that Antony needs to raise his levels if he is to re-establish his status as a regular starter.
“It had nothing to do with fitness. He’s fit, but we have many options on the right,” Ten Hag explained.
“We have all seen Antony’s form, and he has to step up. I see it in training, but also Omari Forson, Amad Diallo, and Garnacho deserve to play.”
United’s sales and releases are expected to hit double figures at the end of a disastrous second season under Ten Hag as Sir Jim Ratcliffe oversees a structural overhaul.
The Dutchman could be in the firing line himself, and his most expensive recruit may join him out the exit door if there is interest.
