Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has publicly criticized Antony’s controversial celebration following their FA Cup semi-final defeat against Coventry City.
The Brazilian winger drew criticism for running in front of the Coventry fans with a hand cupped to his ear after the penalty shootout loss.
Despite Manchester United conceding three goals against Coventry, who had only won one of their last four matches in the second tier of English football, Ten Hag acknowledged the opposing team’s performance.
Coventry was commended for their resilience, especially when they dominated in the match’s latter stages.
While some Manchester United players, like Harry Maguire, opted to shake hands with Coventry players immediately after the match, Antony’s reaction has drawn scrutiny.
Ten Hag emphasized that Antony’s response was unjustified, stating that he should not have reacted so.
Speaking ahead of Manchester United’s upcoming match against Sheffield United, Ten Hag addressed the incident, acknowledging that while Antony may have been provoked, his reaction was inappropriate.
He emphasized the need for sportsmanship and professionalism, even in the face of provocation.
The fallout from Antony’s celebration could have broader implications for Ten Hag’s future at Manchester United, as uncertainty looms over whether the new ownership, led by Jim Ratcliffe, will retain him as manager.
Antony, a high-profile signing for Manchester United at £85m from Ajax, has only managed to score two goals this season, failing to justify his transfer fee.
Looking ahead, Manchester United will face local rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley on May 25. Pep Guardiola’s side remains in contention for a league and cup double after their exit from the Champions League at the quarter-finals stage against Real Madrid.
