Erik ten Hag On Antony: ‘Like a Son to Me’ Amid Transfer Speculation

Manchester United’s manager Erik ten Hag has expressed a close personal bond with winger Antony, describing him as “like a son to me.” Despite ongoing rumors linking Antony with a permanent move away from Old Trafford, ten Hag remains supportive of the player.

Antony, who joined United in 2022 for £86 million, has faced a challenging spell at the club and spent the second half of last season on loan at Real Betis. Multiple clubs, including Brighton, Newcastle, and RB Leipzig, have shown interest in signing him this summer. Ten Hag, who previously managed Antony at Ajax and United, has a longstanding positive relationship with the Brazilian winger, having signed him twice during his coaching career.

During their time together, Antony played 166 matches under ten Hag at Ajax and United. The Dutch manager recently stated, “He has great quality. I signed him twice. He was like a son to me, and he still is.” Although Leverkusen, where ten Hag is now head coach, is not currently pursuing Antony, the situation could change, the coach noted: “We’re not interested in him at the moment, but we’ll see what happens in the future.”

The 23-year-old winger scored 12 goals in 96 appearances for United, winning the FA Cup and League Cup during ten Hag’s tenure. However, his future at the club appears uncertain, with transfer speculation ongoing.

Erik ten Hag, previously at Manchester United, now manages Bayer Leverkusen.

Antony has been linked with a move away from Manchester United this summer.