After Manchester United’s 3-1 comeback win against Lens at Old Trafford, manager Erik ten Hag praised three players for their inspiring performances.
The team had a lacklustre first-half display, falling behind to a spectacular goal from Florian Sotoca. However, they improved their performance in the second half, with Marcus Rashford equalizing in the 48th minute, assisted by Antony.
Antony scored the second goal in the 53rd minute with excellent team play. Alejandro Garnacho provided a perfect pass, and the Brazilian winger finished with a clinical first touch, aided by Rashford’s clever dummy run.
Shortly before the hour mark, Casemiro extended United’s lead after Rashford’s header from a Luke Shaw cross deflected off the defensive midfielder into the net.
Following the match, manager Ten Hag showered praise on Rashford, Antony, and Garnacho for their standout performances. While speaking to the club’s official website, he said:
“I’m very pleased with Rashy, of course. The way [he scored] is a typical Rashy goal, I will say. We came out of the back there from a defender and there was a great assist from Antony.”
“I was very pleased with Antony’s performance, he’s improving and also Garna. I think that second goal is a picture, it’s a brilliant goal.”
“The movement – the dribble from Garna, then inside the movement in the right moment, the timing, the run from Rashford, and then it opens up and then the great pass from Garna and the first touch and the finish.”
In the first half, Rashford faced difficulties while playing as the centre-forward, but he showed his best form after the break, contributing with a goal and an assist.
Similarly, Antony also made significant contributions in the second half, registering two goal involvements. Garnacho delivered an impressive performance until he was substituted.
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The youngster’s precise delivery set up the goal for Antony, showcasing his potential for a promising season ahead.
Last season, Garnacho mostly had cameo roles, but his goal for the upcoming campaign is to secure a more regular spot in Ten Hag’s starting plans.
However, this won’t be an easy task due to the intense competition for positions. The Argentine will have to compete directly with Rashford and Antony for the wide positions, especially when Hojlund takes the central striker role.
