Manchester United defeated Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford on Wednesday, recovering from their dismal performance over the weekend.

The players’ intensity and willpower were largely responsible for the victory, and manager Erik ten Hag should be commended for his audacious team selection.

After that embarrassing display against Newcastle, changes had to be done. Marcus Rashford was the team’s highest scorer the previous season, so a less daring manager would have started him.

A breath of fresh air for Antony

However, the Dutchman, who was playing Antony on the right, was tenacious and always supported the team, whether they were attacking or covering ground.

The Brazilian is without a goal or an assist this season, but he should have had his first when he was awarded a penalty kick for a foul committed against him inside the area by Enzo Fernandez.

Bruno Fernandes ultimately failed to make the play, but the Brazilian would not allow it stop him from continuing and becoming a continuous pain in the right side.

In stark contrast to what the Manchester United player had delivered a few days prior, he finished with 52 touches, made two crucial passes, and created one major opportunity.

He was also not afraid to shoot, with two efforts being blocked in addition to one on target and one off target (data via Sofascore).

Tenacious Antony

When his teammates passed the ball to him in confined spaces, the Brazil international used his quick feet to pull the defense in and draw four fouls.

He won seven duels thanks to his persistent side, and he also made two tackles to show that he was willing to get his hands dirty to assist his team win.

After a difficult start to his second season in Manchester, the former Ajax star is gradually finding his form, as evidenced by his Champions League performance against Galatasaray last week.

At this point, he needs to put in goals and assists to relieve some of the strain on himself. Antony is talented enough to provide Ten Hag the extra production he needs from his offensive players.

His performance served as a reminder of his abilities, and he ought to start against Bournemouth on Saturday.