Antony: Erik ten Hag Vows to Refrain Manchester United Star’s Showboating Skills

Antony: Erik ten Hag Vows to Refrain Manchester United Star’s Showboating Skills

Martin Moses
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:15 PM
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  • Erik ten Hag appeared infuriated by Antony's showboating skills at Old Trafford during a Europa League match
  • Antony opted to do skill signature style twice but passed the ball out of play immediately
  • Ten Hag has warned Antony to do skills that contribute to the team's well-being and not just for the sake of it

Manchester United Head Coach Erik ten Hag has promised to correct Antony's showboating if necessary.

The Manchester United forward performed his signature 'Antourny' during his side's clash against Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League.

Antony, Manchester United, showboating, Old Trafford, Europa League, Erik ten Hag
Manchester United forward Antony in action against Sheriff Tiraspol at Old Trafford. Photos by Visionhaus/Ash Donelon
Source: Getty Images

The Brazilian received the ball in the first half and, with acres of space ahead of him, decided to do the skill twice. He then passed the ball right out of play, sparking lots of criticisms from retired footballers led by Paul Scholes.

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Ten Hag's reaction on the bench told it all as the manager shook his head seemingly in disapproval. Speaking after the match, as ESPN reports, the former Ajax manager promised he would work on it.

"I don't have a problem with that the trick as long as it's functional. I demand more from him -- more runs behind, more often in the box and more playing in the pocket. When there is a trick like that, it's nice as long as it's functional. If you're not losing the ball then it's OK but if it's a trick because of a trick then I will correct him."

Manchester United went on to win the game 3-0 courtesy of goals from Diogo Dalot, Marcus Rashford and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Antony is not afraid to show his skills

Sports Brief had earlier reported that Manchester United's forward Antony is quickly building a reputation for himself as one of the most skilful players in the world.

His mazy runs and quick feet often leave defenders for dead. He arrived at Manchester United from Ajax in a big-money move and so far, so good; he is matching his hefty price tag.

Against Chelsea on October 22nd, Antony came up against Ben Chilwell in his preferred wing. He was one of the main antagonists as Manchester United pinned down Chelsea in the opening exchanges. He had two half chances in the first half, with one requiring a save from Kepa Arrizabalaga with the other going just outside the right post. But it was his nutmeg that got fans talking.

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Martin Moses photo
Martin Moses
Martin Moses is a sports journalist with over five years of experience in media. He graduated from Multimedia University of Kenya (Bachelor of Journalism, 2017-2021)
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