Why Erik ten Hag Chose Antony Over Amad Diallo: Insights from Benni McCarthy

The rise of Amad Diallo, Manchester United’s highly talented young winger, has been a topic of intrigue among fans, especially given his sporadic appearances under Erik ten Hag. While his potential is undeniable, his limited role in Ten Hag’s plans has often raised eyebrows. Former United coach Benni McCarthy has shed light on this matter, offering valuable insights into the tactical preferences that led Ten Hag to favor Antony over the Ivorian prodigy.

A Tactical Decision Rooted in Familiarity

Speaking candidly about Ten Hag’s decisions, McCarthy revealed that the Dutch manager’s trust in Antony stemmed from their shared history at Ajax. Antony had been a key player under Ten Hag in the Netherlands, and the manager believed the Brazilian was better suited to execute his tactical vision at Manchester United. This familiarity with Antony’s playing style and strengths played a significant role in shaping the manager’s decisions.

The Ajax Connection

Antony’s success at Ajax was no coincidence. Under Ten Hag’s guidance, the Brazilian developed into one of Europe’s most exciting wingers, known for his flair, creativity, and work rate. By the time Ten Hag took over at Manchester United, Antony had already proven himself as a reliable asset in the manager’s tactical system. This prior relationship gave Antony an edge over other options in United’s squad, including Diallo.

Amad Diallo’s Journey

Amad Diallo, on the other hand, has had a different trajectory. Signed from Atalanta in 2021 for a substantial fee, the Ivorian winger arrived at Old Trafford with immense promise. Despite glimpses of his immense potential during loan spells, including a standout stint at Sunderland, Diallo has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at United. His raw talent has been evident, but consistency and tactical adaptation remain areas for growth.

Antony’s Tactical Edge

One of the primary reasons for Ten Hag’s preference for Antony lies in the Brazilian’s ability to deliver on both ends of the pitch. Known for his high work rate and defensive contributions, Antony offers more than just attacking prowess. He understands the nuances of Ten Hag’s pressing game, tracks back diligently, and provides balance to the team—qualities that made him indispensable during their time at Ajax and now at Manchester United.

Amad’s Creative Spark

While Antony’s discipline and tactical awareness make him a dependable choice, Amad Diallo brings a different set of attributes to the table. The Ivorian is a natural dribbler, capable of unlocking defenses with his flair and creativity. His ability to operate in tight spaces and create opportunities out of nothing is a rare gift. However, these qualities alone may not align perfectly with Ten Hag’s structured approach, which emphasizes collective effort and tactical discipline.

The Manager’s Vision

Every manager has a unique philosophy, and Ten Hag is no exception. His approach revolves around a system where every player understands their role and contributes to the team’s overall structure. Antony’s familiarity with this system from his Ajax days gave him a head start at Manchester United, making him the preferred choice for Ten Hag’s plans.

Challenges for Amad

For Amad Diallo, adapting to Ten Hag’s tactical demands has been a learning curve. While his talent is undeniable, the young winger needs to demonstrate consistency and a deeper understanding of the tactical requirements expected of him. This process takes time, especially for a player transitioning from loan spells to competing at the highest level in the Premier League.

Benni McCarthy’s Perspective

McCarthy’s comments highlight the complexities of team selection and player management. He emphasized that Ten Hag’s decision was not a reflection of Amad’s lack of ability but rather a tactical preference that aligned with the manager’s vision for the team. This insight underscores the importance of tactical compatibility in modern football, where managers prioritize players who can execute their game plans effectively.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

The revelation from McCarthy has sparked discussions among Manchester United fans. Many supporters believe that Amad deserves more opportunities to showcase his talent, while others understand Ten Hag’s reliance on Antony given the Brazilian’s familiarity with the system. This divide reflects the challenges managers face in balancing fan expectations with tactical priorities.

Amad’s Potential Role

Despite his limited playing time, Amad Diallo remains a valuable asset for Manchester United. His versatility and creativity make him an excellent option off the bench or in specific tactical setups. As he continues to develop under Ten Hag’s guidance, there is every reason to believe that he could become a key player for the club in the future.

Looking Ahead

For Amad Diallo, the journey is far from over. The Ivorian has shown resilience and determination throughout his career, and his potential remains vast. With time, he could refine his game to align more closely with Ten Hag’s tactical demands, paving the way for a more prominent role in the squad.

Antony’s Challenges

While Antony enjoys the trust of his manager, he is not without challenges. The Brazilian has faced criticism for inconsistency and moments of inefficiency in the final third. As he continues to adapt to the Premier League, Antony must work on improving his end product to justify his place in the starting lineup.

A Healthy Competition

The dynamic between Antony and Amad Diallo creates healthy competition within the squad—a vital ingredient for any successful team. This rivalry could push both players to raise their game, benefiting Manchester United as a whole.

Conclusion: A Tale of Two Wingers

The contrasting journeys of Antony and Amad Diallo highlight the complexities of modern football. While Antony’s familiarity with Ten Hag’s system has given him an advantage, Amad’s raw talent and potential make him an exciting prospect for the future. As the season progresses, both players will have opportunities to prove their worth and contribute to Manchester United’s success.

For now, Ten Hag’s decision to prioritize Antony over Amad reflects his tactical philosophy and trust in players who understand his system. However, Amad’s story is still unfolding, and his determination to succeed could eventually rewrite the narrative, offering Manchester United fans yet another reason to celebrate their team’s bright future.