Erik ten Hag sends a warning to £85m Man Utd signing after leaving him on bench vs Man City - view
Manchester United suffered a tough loss on penalties against Manchester City in the Community Shield on Saturday.
The Red Devils led during regular time, but Bernardo Silva equalised for City with a dramatic 89th-minute goal.
Andre Onana saved Silva’s penalty in the shoot-out, briefly giving United the upper hand.
However, missed penalties from Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans handed Man City the victory at Wembley Stadium.
Erik ten Hag deployed Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo on the flanks. Jadon Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho replaced them in the second half.
Facundo Pellistri also made a cameo appearance, surprisingly slotting in at right-back.
Antony was the lone winger in the matchday squad who didn’t see any action, indicating he has fallen down the pecking order.
Next month will mark two years since his hefty £85 million transfer from Ajax to Old Trafford.
The 24-year-old has made 82 appearances for the Red Devils, netting merely 11 goals and providing five assists.
Although statistics don’t capture the full picture, Antony’s mediocre numbers reflect his struggles.
The Brazilian is predominantly a right-winger but faces stiff competition for that spot now.
Garnacho has emerged as the first-choice right-winger, while Diallo has bolstered his reputation and is likely to see more action.
Both players deserve more game-time than the former Ajax winger.
Ten Hag has given Anonty ample opportunities, but it is time to favour Diallo who has patiently waited for his chance.
Antony should embrace this setback constructively and work hard in training. Considering his rapport with the United manager, he can earn another crack in the team.
Antony must seize that, or he may be on his way out of the club next summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.