Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag must start Facundo Pellistri ahead of Antony during Wednesday’s Champions League group stage clash at Copenhagen.
The Red Devils returned to winning ways against Fulham on Saturday. The club were unlucky to have an early goal chalked off by VAR but they managed to pick up three points in the end.
Bruno Fernandes scored the winner in dramatic fashion in the 91st minute. The goal was assisted by Pellistri whose tremendous work rate created the opportunity for Fernandes.
The Uruguayan piled the pressure on the Cottagers with his consistent high pressing. It eventually induced an error and created the space for Fernandes to unleash his effort on goal.
In our opinion, Pellistri was far more effective from the right wing in his 27 minute cameo than Antony. The Brazilian did not create a single chance and barely got into the opposition box.
Pellistri registered his first Premier League assist of his career on Saturday and we firmly believe he should start in the midweek Champions League trip to Denmark to face Copenhagen.
United have registered three points from as many group games. The upcoming clash against the Danish champions is a must-win for them to boost their round of 16 qualification hopes.
Copenhagen made it difficult for United in the reverse fixture. A late Harry Maguire goal and a fantastic penalty save from Andre Onana in stoppage time secured the win at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils can’t take them lightly and Ten Hag needs to pick his team on merit. Antony deserves to be dropped to the bench, having failed to make a goal contribution this term.
Pellistri, who has been described as ‘spectacular‘ by compatriot Ronald Araujo, should be handed his second start of the Champions League campaign. He previously faced Bayern on the road.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
