A year ago
Rio Ferdinand's praise of Antony, who came off the bench to score Manchester United's winning goal against Barcelona, suggested a change since Cristiano Ronaldo's departure in November.
Rio Ferdinand praised Manchester United's Antony, a hero of the Europa League, for his mentality.
The Brazilian substitute scored their game-winning goal in the second half against Barcelona, giving them a 2-1 victory on the night and a 4-3 victory overall. At Old Trafford, Antony has struggled to live up to expectations after following Erik ten Hag from Ajax last year.
In contrast to the dismal atmosphere in the camp last season, Ferdinand acknowledged his upbeat approach as a significant plus. While their behavior, frequently led by Cristiano Ronaldo, was severely criticized, United's handsomely created team continued to perform below expectations.
The tone and vibe on Manchester's red side now seem to have changed since the Portuguese star left. Ferdinand's remarks suggest a potential improvement after Ronaldo was ejected from the game.
You want to see that, he wrote on social media. individuals making an effect after sitting on the bench. not pouting and helping the cause.
At halftime, Antony was introduced, and his manager appreciated his contribution. "We know that if we can bring Antony on, if we can bring Alejandro Garnacho on, you get speed, runs in behind, you get dribbles, and you get belief, in the appropriate locations," said Ten Hag. They both have such courage. They are bold, they have no fear of anyone, and The entire team gets a boost, especially when you visit Stretford End and players are taken on and run in from behind.
The senior members of the squad were criticized for their antics on the field last season by a number of former United stars who are savoring their comeback this year. Hardly did United display any resiliency when things went against them; instead, they lamented their teammates.
Against Barcelona, Antony scored Manchester United's winning goal.
Gary Neville was one of those who came out, criticizing Bruno Fernandes and Ronaldo. He remarked last season at one point: "I did nothing except watch Ronaldo and Fernandes up front. They occasionally flailed their arms at a few of their team members, which I didn't want to see. That must be stopped!"
Before leaving, Cristiano Ronaldo received criticism for his unruly behavior.
When he turned his gun on the entire team, he strengthened his position. They're a bunch of whingebags, he said, and they're whining at each other. "They are a group of complainers. Observe them on that field. As they are whining at each other, I won't mention their names. They have their arms raised and are grumbling about everything."
Even Roy Keane, who continued to defend Ronaldo up until his departure from United, said the international superstar should have conducted himself differently. He said that Ronaldo "should have stronger leadership qualities, I know he's been frustrated when he's been left out."
After an incident at Brentford which saw Ronaldo kick-off when dragged off, he added: "[I have] No problem with a player being unhappy, but the game is continuing on and 15 minutes later he's still upset. I think Ronaldo has not been outstanding on that side of it."
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