Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, has sent a strong message to Brazilian winger Antony, insisting that the player must “earn the right” to regain his place in the starting lineup.
Antony, who joined United from Ajax in 2022 for a staggering £82 million, becoming the club’s second most expensive signing in history, has struggled to secure a regular spot this season.
So far, the 23-year-old has managed just one minute of Premier League action, prompting speculation about his current standing within the squad.
As United prepares for their Carabao Cup third-round clash against League One side Barnsley on Tuesday, Ten Hag hinted at potential changes but made it clear that Antony’s selection would depend solely on his performance in training.
“We will see what the lineup [against Barnsley] will be,” Ten Hag responded when asked whether Antony could make his first start of the season.
“We have training every day, and the players have to earn the right. When the attitude is good and they show performances in training, then they will play.”
Despite his high-profile move, Antony has fallen out of favor, facing stiff competition from the likes of Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho.