Ten Hag raves about Antony as he talks about how Ajax are missing him
Manchester United are reported to be hoping to sign Ajax winger Antony this summer, who could follow Erik ten Hag to Old Trafford.
The Telegraph report Ten Hag is keen to land Antony, who has been out of the Ajax spotlight over the past month.
The winger picked up an injury for Brazil against Bolivia, with Ajax’s update at the time stating the injury could keep him out for the rest of the season.
It is possible Antony could return, however, and despite continuing to win in the league, Ajax have missed him, losing the KNVB Cup final.
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Ten Hag highlights Antony importance
Speaking after Ajax’s 3-0 weekend win over PEC Zwolle, Ten Hag said it was possible the winger could return before the end of the season.
He added, via FCUpdate: “We all miss him. Without Antony it is all a bit less fast and dynamic on the right, which also makes it more difficult for the team. Then the spaces become a lot smaller.”
Ten Hag’s admiration for the winger is clear, believing the tricky Brazilian is key to their attack clicking.
It makes perfect sense that Ten Hag would be keen to bring him to Manchester United this summer, as a player who could help unlock Premier League defences.
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End of season rest could suit United
It could actually work in Manchester United’s favour, for Antony to continue to sit out between now and the end of the season.
Firstly, it prevents him adding to the 12 goals and eight assists he has already provided this season, and allowing more scouts to watch him from other teams, while inflating his price tag.
His absence also shows Ajax they can get by without him, forcing them to test out alternative right wing options.
The winger could really help United if he signs, adding another dangerous threat from out wide to complement and take pressure off of Jadon Sancho.
And then if Antony does sign for United, he will arrive fresh, after resting up for the final few weeks of this season, ready to kick on in 2022/23.
