Erik ten Hag blames Antony’s poor form on domestic violence allegations against him

Erik ten Hag thinks that Antony’s miserable performance at Manchester United is related to the claims of domestic abuse made against the struggling Brazilian.

Erik ten Hag has blamed Antony’s form on the domestic violence allegations against him (Image: Getty Images)

Erik ten Hag attributes Antony’s startling transformation to the accusations of domestic abuse leveled against him.

Additionally, the Manchester United manager has cautioned the winger that his performance must improve. In September, Antony was given time off by United and dropped by Brazil due to claims made by his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin that he had physically attacked her.

Similar accusations were made by two other women, one of whom has since withdrew her claim, and Antony willingly agreed to speak with Greater Manchester Police.

Antony is the second most expensive signing in United’s history, having cost the club £82 million. But with no goals or assists this season, United supporters are quickly growing weary of the underwhelming failure.

Ten Hag stated that Antony’s shortcomings were caused by the fallout from the accusations. The 23-year-old needs to start performing well on the field, he concedes. “I think it’s very simple,” he stated. I believe his problems off the field prevent him from playing. It’s had a result.

“Undoubtedly, they have affected him, and he must deal with that. He needs to address his loss of form, which he caused. We will support him to the hilt, but he needs to perform better.

“He didn’t give the performances we should have expected from him—and he is capable of much more—from the moment he left and the moment he returned. He can definitely deliver crucial plays, passes, crosses, and finishing touches. That’s where he ought to go back to. Even though the Premier League is harder, he can succeed there.”

Alejandro Garnacho’s performances suggest that Antony, who has started five of United’s last six league games, may have to watch from the sidelines. Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford both scored in the Red Devils’ previous two league games against Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa, respectively.