Erik ten Hag told his most expensive signing 'not good enough' for Man Utd

Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has explained why he thinks the manager’s biggest signing isn’t good enough for the club.

Jaap Stam has doubts about Antony ever reaching the level needed to play for Manchester United.

Anthony is the most expensive player United have acquired under Erik ten Hag. The manager sanctioned £85 million to bring his former Ajax player to Old Trafford in August 2022. Yet, despite showing some initial promise, the Brazilian winger’s performances have declined.

This season, Anthony has not contributed a single goal or assist, after taking a leave of absence in September to address criminal allegations made against him by his old partner, Gabriela Cavallin.

“From what I’ve seen from Antony, he’s not good enough for this level that we’re looking for at United,” Stam said on The Overlap.

“Because you’re also looking for a player who can have a difficult time and struggle when he comes in, but [we can see] where he is making progress to get to that level.

“When you’re looking at Antony now, at this moment, you don’t see where he can make the progress to make the next step in the Premier League to be up there with the top wingers who can make a difference.”

Stam added that Anthony performed well for Ajax, but that the competition in the Dutch league is mostly average.

The Dutchman emphasized the importance of recruiting players who can make a difference at a higher level. He also expressed surprise at Antony’s transfer fee.

The player started in United’s Champions League game against Bayern Munich on Tuesday. He couldn’t make an impact though, as Ten Hag’s side fell to a 1-0 loss. The defeat ended the club’s European campaign, having finished bottom of Group A.

The focus will now turn to Anfield, where Anthony and United hope to spring a surprise on Liverpool. They will face the Premier League leaders on Sunday.