Erik ten Hag reveals who was actually responsible for signing Antony as he addresses 'crazy' claims

Erik ten Hag has revealed who was responsible for signing Antony after his struggles since joining Manchester United.

Back in the summer of 2022, the Red Devils completed the signing of Brazilian winger Antony from Dutch side Ajax for a reported fee of £82 million.

Due to his work with Ten Hag, it was expected that Antony would become a standout star under the Dutchman.

However, the 24-year-old has struggled to prove his worth, only managing 11 goals in 82 appearances across all competitions for the Old Trafford club.

As a result of Antony’s poor performances, the decision to bring him to United was questioned by fans and pundits.

During a recent interview, Ten Hag spoke about the reasoning behind bringing Antony to the club.

He said: “When Mason Greenwood had problems, something had to be done, someone had to be bought.

“The number one on the scouts' list was Antony. He stood out in almost all of Ajax's Champions League matches, it wasn't a crazy choice.”

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During the 23/24 season, former United defender Gary Neville spoke about Antony, he said: “If he [Ten Hag] thinks Antony is an £85m player, that for me is such a worry. That is terrifying.

“That's the one that is going to stand out - that £85 million. He's obviously nowhere near that level. But there are a lot of deals you can start to look at with a glass half empty looking at the recruitment.”

Neville continued: “What looks to have happened is Manchester United's recruitment department can't have gone and watched Antony and signed him off at £85 million.

“It looks like they've allowed Ten Hag to overrule them which is worrying because you need strength of leadership at the very top.”

United are back in action as they take on Rangers at Murrayfield on Staurday afternoon.