Even Erik ten Hag would agree if you disparage Antony even when he scored the winning goal against Barca. But that’s exactly what’s true about this guy, an unorthodox hero.
One month ago, Ten Hag corrected Antony: “He has to transform and become more dynamic. Antony needs the support of his teammates, and also needs to know how to coordinate with his teammates. That’s the area he needs to improve on.”
At the match against Barca at Old Trafford, people continued to see Ten Hag angry with his student from his time at Ajax. After a counter-attack started from Varane, the ball reached Antony’s feet on the right side in a very empty position. In the penalty area, teammates were present. Outside the box, there are people already waiting. But Antony was too hesitant, eventually choosing to finish on his own and was blocked, ending a potential ball in a sloppy way.
Television cameras captured the exasperated Ten Hag, facing Antony with his arm raised. The Dutch strategist talks a lot and it is easy to see the frustration in action. Antony was brought on by Ten Hag in the second half with the desire to make a difference and that was certainly not what he wanted to see.
But then with a skillful left foot, it was Antony who drew the most perfect curve at Old Trafford, scoring the goal to close the score 2-1 . For an attacking player, goals are still the most important thing. Antony’s shot is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also effective at 10. Ter Stegen falls very quickly but cannot be stopped.
As a legendary super goalkeeper, even Peter Schmeichel has to admit: “Two previous shots were blocked but the ball was still ended with a shot into Antony’s dead corner. The goalkeeper never had a chance. block with those shots.”
Robbie Savage added: “United’s substitutions had a noticeable impact. Garnacho was the first to finish and then Antony. It was a fantastic finish. Since coming on, Antony has become a constant worry for the Barca defender. Antony and the corridor must remain something symbolic.”
And that’s also what Antony showed when he scored against Arsenal or Man City in the Premier League. In big matches, the Brazilian player always knows how to shine. He did not play well enough, still full of handling phase that made the public angry but still the leading mutant factor.
Need to know that MU had a bad first half. The flexible use of Wout Weghorst did not work and he was substituted, making way for Antony. When asked what he said to the players during halftime, Ten Hag revealed: “I emphasize trust, because in the first half we played too perfection. We didn’t know how to take advantage of Casemiro, or Aaron Wan. -Bissaka with space on the right I want players to confidently put pressure on opponents, and Antony’s presence in the second half also brought more speed and confidence to the team. Antony brave, did not give up. in every challenge. The goal is great and I need this quality from him.”
Well, over time, MU fans as well as Ten Hag expect Antony to combine better with his teammates. And if you can’t do it, then just score the decision… fine. At that time, whether Antony rotates the compass twice or inhibits both opponents, teammates and spectators will be forgiven.
