Erik ten Hag believes there’s a ‘very simple’ explanation for Antony’s less-than-impressive performances at Manchester United this season.
Despite the Brazilian winger’s struggles, Ten Hag is confident in his ability to rediscover top form.
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Antony, who moved from Ajax to Old Trafford in the summer of 2022 for £85 million, has yet to score or assist in 21 appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions.
Last season, he had slightly better output with four goals and two assists in the Premier League, averaging a key contribution every 454 minutes since leaving Ajax.
Antony was granted a leave of absence in September, missing three games due to allegations of domestic abuse. Ten Hag acknowledges the significant impact of these off-pitch issues but believes the discussion surrounding Antony’s performances has been exaggerated.
When asked if he can explain Antony’s struggles in the Premier League, Ten Hag said: ‘I can explain, it’s very simple. I think his off-field issues stops him playing.
‘I don’t agree [that he has struggled in the Premier League], I think his first year was okay, and I think pre-season was very okay.
‘First four games were very good. For instance, I’ve seen the game against Spurs back, he played a very good game over there.
‘But from the moment he was out and then he came back, he didn’t deliver the performance we should expect from him and he can do so much better.
‘If you mention Ajax, also I looked back there. His effectiveness, his end product was very high there, also in the Champions League, [it was] very high.
‘So, I’m sure he’s capable of doing this by bringing key actions, key passes, the crosses, the finishing.
‘His end product in Ajax was very high, he should return to those levels but of course the Premier League is more difficult. He’s capable of doing it.’
Probed on whether the off-field issues are troubling Antony, Ten Hag added: ‘It has had an effect. It has had an impact on him, definitely.
‘He has to deal with that, he caused them, so he has to sort them out. We will give him all the support but he has to do better.’
