Manchester United former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has expressed surprise at Dutch coach Erik ten Hag's decision to sign Brazilian winger Antony for €100 million instead of Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus. Both players have previously played for Ajax Amsterdam and Ten Hag has opted to bring Antony to England, although West Ham are also interested in Kudus. However, Kudus has recently surpassed his former coach by putting in a stellar performance against his former team, Ajax Amsterdam.
Since joining West Ham in the summer, Kudus has been impressive, contributing 15 goals this season, including six in the Premier League. Such an excellent performance caught Schmeichel's attention, who questioned Ten Hag's decision to choose Antony over Kudus. Kudus will now join his national team, the Blackstars, for the Africa Cup of Nations in January 2023.
His continued success could further cement his status as an important player for Ghana. Ten Hag's decision to choose Antony over Kudus seems to have backfired, as Kudus has shown his talent and become a thorn in the side of his former coach and team-mates. The win could be a delightful Christmas present for West Ham, who now boast a dynamic and influential player, Kudus. Schmeichel's surprise at the decision highlights the impact Kudus has had since joining West Ham and shows the opportunities Ten Hag and his new club may have missed. As Kudus continues to contribute and impress West Ham's success, it remains to be seen whether Ten Hag will regret choosing Antony over Kudus.