Former Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy has suggested that Erik ten Hag showed a preference for players he signed, such as Antony, over others like Amad during his tenure at Old Trafford. McCarthy, who joined Ten Hag's coaching staff in July 2022 and became a key figure working with the strikers, had insight into the Dutchman's selection process.
Despite leaving before the current season, McCarthy witnessed Amad being consistently sidelined in favour of Antony, a decision that contributed to Ten Hag's dwindling popularity among fans and ultimately led to his dismissal in October. Ruben Amorim, the new manager, now sees Amad as an essential player after reviewing the squad.
Speaking on the Podcast and Chill Network, McCarthy was questioned about Amad's lack of game time under Ten Hag. He explained: "Tactically, when we set up, the manager felt that Antony was the best, better player for the job that he wanted because he knew Antony from Ajax. He was his player, so he invested in him, and the club supported him.
"So, of course, he had to support the player that he bought, I think that's why he persisted in playing Antony. It's because he knew the capabilities when Antony was at his best.
"And then you had [Alejandro] Garnacho who was also playing well, scoring goals. [Marcus] Rashford, on any given day, could demolish anyone. And then you've got [Rasmus] Hojlund, you spend £70m on bringing him in, so he has to play.
"So someone's gotta [miss out], and unfortunately for Amad, the manager goes with the player he thinks is probably more capable for, for those type of games tactically, defensively and attacking."
