Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag has showered praise on Antony, despite recent criticism, for the Brazilian’s resurgence in form.
While the 23-year-old is yet to register his first goal or assist in the 2023-24 campaign,
his strong display against Galatasaray in the Champions League last week and arguably his most effective 90 minutes of the season in Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea showcased his improvement.
Antony, addressing his detractors in a comprehensive interview before the match against Mauricio Pochettino‘s side, opened up about navigating a challenging phase in his life.
The forward remains under scrutiny by authorities in Brazil and England as they investigate allegations of multiple assaults against his former girlfriend during their past relationship.
Antony has faced severe criticism from revered Manchester United icons.
Ten Hag said that Antony is now “stepping up” and urged the South American to “build from this”.
“I think it’s a very good opinion. I agree, I think he’s progressing as the team is progressing.
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But yeah, this is the attitude what he needs and what he has to contribute to the team.
“And he was very bright, I think he got very good positions on the ball.
He make also very good decisions. And yeah, he’s stepping up and and he has to build from this.”
“Last week we played three games. The two times we play good, I would say against Everton, very good.
And then one bad performance. But you see this team is in a good direction, is very good progressing and so we are pleased with that.”
“And I know sometimes you have bad performance but then, still, you can get a result. That is the next step we have to make.
“When you stick together, when you have the right attitude, when you when you fight it and, even in bad performances, you have to collect points.
“So that’s going to be the next step. But you see how we play, style, so dominating the opponent in and out of possession.
That is the way I want to play. And so I was very pleased and for me it was very enjoyable, how the team today played.”
