A Real Betis insider has shed light on why Antony has struggled to make an impact at Manchester United, attributing his decline to tactical decisions made by both Rúben Amorim and Erik ten Hag.
Amorim’s Defensive Strategy
During European encounters, Amorim effectively nullified Antony’s strengths by:
– **Restricting Space:** Crowding the wide areas to limit his freedom.
– **Forcing Him Inside:** Steering him onto his weaker right foot, reducing his attacking threat.
– **Cutting Off Passing Lanes:** Isolating him by limiting support from teammates.
Ten Hag’s Tactical Shortcomings
Despite previously nurturing Antony at Ajax, Ten Hag’s system at United failed to maximize his potential by:
– Relying too heavily on Antony’s individual skill without adapting the team’s structure.
– Becoming predictable, as Antony repeatedly cut inside onto his left foot.
– Lacking overlapping full-backs to create space for him.
Can Antony Adapt?
To regain his form, Antony must develop his right foot, improve his decision-making under pressure, and explore different roles on the pitch.
With Manchester United’s ongoing tactical evolution, his future at the club remains uncertain unless he finds a way to reinvent his game.
