Paradoxically, the international break has not necessarily done Manchester United any good. With the players he had under his belt, Erik ten Hag would have liked to take advantage of this break to put his team back on track following the tough defeat against Arsenal two weeks ago (3-1). However, the controversies have polluted his daily life. The fault firstly goes to Jadon Sancho who responded to his coach’s comments directly on social networks, and to the Antony affair, accused of violence by his ex-partner and other women.
For the English winger, the matter is settled for a little while, as he has been sidelined from the first team, pending an apology from him. Erik ten Hag even left very unclear about the player’s future at Old Trafford yesterday at a press conference. “Whether he will play with us again? I don’t know. Like a very sharp knife. He’s not available at the moment so it’s not important because he can’t contribute.” The Red Devils were undoubtedly hoping for a better return for an element which still cost €85 million.
Ten Hag spoke with Antony
There is also the Antony problem. Since the police are investigating the Brazilian’s behavior and the accusations against him, the English club have decided to sideline him. Another thorny case to manage while the Brazilian national team also wanted to do without it for its September selection. If the player defends himself, the testimonies are more and more numerous. “I am disappointed by his current situation”explained Ten Hag yesterday before the Brighton reception (this Saturday, 4 p.m.).
“If I spoke to him? Of course he’s disappointed, but he’s doing well.”continued the Dutchman, even though he did not “no idea” when the former Ajax player will be available again. While waiting to find out, Antony is preparing his defense but everything suggests that he will not be on the field for a while. It’s another hard blow for Manchester United who didn’t really need this at the moment. Especially since between Sancho and Antony, it’s almost €200 million less on the pitch.
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