Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag reportedly had to tell new signings Tyrell Malacia and Antony to drop their rivalry from their former teams on training. Ten Hag insisted on signing Malacia at the start of the summer window from Feyenoord whereas Antony made a big money move from ten Hag’s previous club, Ajax Amsterdam to Old Trafford.
Ajax and Feyenoord are title rivals in Eredivisie and hence both the players were rivals during their stay in the Netherlands. Therefore Ten Hag had to avoid any training drama or rivalry between both the players.
The young fullback revealed that Ten Hag had given clear instruction to drop earlier rivalries. He also spoke very highly of the Brazilian sensation, Antony. “When he [Antony] arrived [at Manchester United], the first thing the coach said was, ‘Guys, easy on each other.’ He’s [Antony] a good player and I love to play against him. And now I play with him, which is fantastic,” Malacia shared.
Antony started his Untied career with a bang as he scored a brilliant goal on debut. He is known for his quick feet and deceptive skills. His daunting ability to take on defenders also provides a great attacking outlet for the Red Devils.
Malacia on the other hand has been a very consistent performer. The young fullback has been very solid in both attack and defense and has made his spot in the starting eleven permanent. The youngster has shown great fight and has already been one of the favourites among the new players for the Manchester United faithful.
While sharing thoughts on the season gone by, Malacia revealed how every game is difficult and there is hardly any time to waste as the Red Devils want to get back to level where they belong. “Every game is difficult [in the Premier League], every week is difficult – there are no easy games,” he shared.
United are currently in fifth position after collecting 12 points from six games in the Premier League. Ten Hag’s men have also won one out of the two Europa League games till now. While they lost to Real Sociedad on the opening night, Manchester United clawed back to winning ways against FC Sheriff in the second week of the competition.
