Manchester United tests confirm that Antony will not be able to play again throughout the season after suffering a sprained ankle

Against Fenerbahce, Antony put another nail in the coffin of his Manchester United career with a horrid cameo.

On a night in Istanbul in which Erik ten Hag made multiple mistakes, it is undeniable that his biggest error was the treatment of Amad Diallo.

Noussair Mazraoui started the 1-1 draw in attacking midfield, with the experimental decision viewed as a complete failure as the natural right-back looked out of place in the No.10 position.

Andre Onana praised Mazraoui for his efforts, but ultimately it was a bizarre decision for Amad Diallo to be snubbed as an attacking midfielder.

Ten Hag doubled down on his insult to the £19m in the 73rd minute when he opted to bring on Antony ahead of the 22-year-old Ivorian. Only for the Brazilian winger to be withdrawn through injury 16 minutes later.

There could however be a silver lining from Antony’s injury if Ten Hag makes the decision every manager of Manchester United should.

Antony of Manchester United leaves the game on a stretcher after getting injured during the UEFA Europa League week 3 football match between Fenerb…

Photo by Ali Atmaca/Anadolu via Getty Images

Antony picked up what looked to be a serious injury against Fenerbahce – judging solely off his reaction as he was clearly distressed.

Knowing his days are numbered at United and running out of opportunities to impress, a long-term injury might even mean we don’t see Antony again.

But his injury leaves the Red Devils short on the wings with just three options which is not enough considering how thick and fast games are now coming.

He could find his solution by following the United motto. Youth. Courage. Success.

With rotation needed, Ten Hag should be bold and follow the club’s motto of turning to the academy – where he has numerous exceptional talents at his disposal.

Ethan Ennis has been impressive for United’s U21s this campaign so far and could be deserving of promotion – however, it actually is a U18 academy gem who we think could make the step up immediately.

Shea Lacey could be Manchester United’s next wonderkid to breakthrough

With Antony potentially out, it could be time for Shea Lacey to finally get involved in the senior team.

Lacey has long been tipped as the next big thing within Carrington and after an injury-plagued 2023/24 the Liverpudlian has returned with a vengeance – catching fire in the first few games of his season.

Good win and 2 assists 👊🏼 pic.twitter.com/g43fA2MOv9

— Shea lacey (@Shealacey10) October 23, 2024

View Tweet

The 17-year-old has scored twice already for the U18s while has also been among the assists for the U19 UEFA Youth League side this past Wednesday – with a brilliant piece of individual play creating one of the goals.

Competition Games Minutes Goals Assists

U18 Premier League 2 58′ 0 0

U18 Premier League Cup 1 30′ 2 0

U19 UEFA Youth League 1 23′ 0 2

Lacey resembles the likes of Lionel Messi and Phil Foden with his silky dribbling on the ball, and this season he has been showcasing a serious improvement in his output, regularly looking a cut above others at the level.

🫣 pic.twitter.com/CY6eh3sgLE

— Shea lacey (@Shealacey10) October 23, 2024

View Tweet

At this rate, it won’t be long until he is knocking on Ten Hag’s door, so possibly it should be the United manager who knocks on Lacey’s and brings him into the fold to occupy the same role as Antony, coming off the bench every so often.

Manchester United tests confirm that Antony suffered a sprained ankle, an injury that will sideline the Brazilian winger from their upcoming game against West Ham. The club has announced that Antony, who recently sustained the injury during a training session, underwent medical tests that confirmed the extent of the sprain. As a result, he is set to miss crucial playing time as he undergoes recovery and rehabilitation.

This injury presents a challenge for Manchester United, as Antony’s pace and playmaking abilities have made him a valuable asset on the right wing. Fans and teammates alike will feel his absence, as he has shown considerable promise in recent performances. However, the club is optimistic about his return in the near future and will monitor his progress closely. In the meantime, manager Erik ten Hag will likely explore alternate lineups to maintain the team’s momentum, hoping for a swift recovery for Antony as they look ahead to the demanding season ahead.

Below is the post.