Van Basten: “Johan Cruyff would be ashamed at Barça’s behaviour”

Marco Van Basten spoke on Ziggo Sport television program Rondo on Monday, and was highly critical about Barcelona’s recent conduct in the current transfer window - and particularly in their dealings with Frenkie de Jong. “I think Johan Cruyff would have been ashamed to see how Barça have behaved,” the former Dutch striker said, adding, “In my opinion, Barcelona’s behavior has been far below their standards”.

Barça were not the only target of his criticism. He also commented on Ajax winger Antony, who scored and provided an assist in Sunday’s 6-1 victory against Groningen. Van Basten would like to see more from the 22-year-old. “I don’t think he has such a good shot. He is a good player, without a doubt, and I hope he does very well, but I still think he still plays dirty too often and loses the ball,” he reproached.

United’s hectic pre-season

Antony has been linked to a move to Old Trafford, but Van Basten doesn’t agree with how Manchester United have gone about their pre-season preparations. “What seems strange to me is that they do a kind of world trip every summer. That is deadly for the group. It’s ridiculous and idiotic,” he said. “They should stop doing that as it takes a physical toll on the players. They do everything they can to earn more money, but it’s nonsense,” he concluded.