Erik ten Hag sends warning to Antony over his ‘attitude’ ahead of Carabao Cup tie against Barnsley amid the £86m Man United star’s lack of game time this season after falling down the pecking order 🗣🗣

Erik ten Hag has told Manchester United’s £86 million winger, Antony, that he needs to demonstrate his value to earn a consistent place in the team. Ten Hag understands Antony’s dissatisfaction, as the Brazilian has made just one appearance this season, as a late substitute against Brighton.

Antony, 24, is eager to start in the Carabao Cup match against Barnsley at Old Trafford tonight (Tuesday). Ten Hag stated, “We train daily, and players must earn their positions. This is professional football at the highest level, and everyone must fight for their place. We choose the starting eleven based on who shows the best form and synergy.”

Ten Hag added, “It’s natural for him to be impatient; he wants to play and is working hard for his chance. We expect every player to compete for their place in the Manchester United squad.”

Since joining from Ajax in 2022, Antony has struggled at Old Trafford and is now the club’s second most expensive signing. This season, Ten Hag has favored academy graduates Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo over Antony for the right wing. He noted, “The other players are performing exceptionally well, and Antony needs to outshine them. Amad and Garnacho have been very effective. Antony needs to raise his game to compete with them.”

Addressing concerns about the club’s ambition under new co-owners Ineos, Ten Hag stressed the importance of domestic cups, saying, “I don’t consider these competitions insignificant. The FA Cup and Carabao Cup are significant, and all teams, owners, and managers aim to win them. We are no different. Winning trophies is crucial, and we aim to secure as many as possible.”

Antony has faced criticism for his performances, scoring only three goals and providing two assists in 38 appearances last season. Off the pitch, Antony has confronted allegations of domestic abuse from three women last year, though he was neither arrested nor charged in Brazil or the UK, and he has denied the claims. A recent Brazilian police investigation ended without charges, but the matter might still be reviewed by prosecutors.

Antony’s legal team confirmed, “The São Paulo Civil Police investigation has been closed without charges. We were always confident that the confidential investigation would clear Antony’s name.”

During the international break, Antony and his girlfriend Rosilene Silva announced their engagement on Instagram, sharing photos of the proposal and their celebration.