Brazilian winger, Antony arrived at Manchester United two seasons ago to much fanfare and expectations from the United faithful. He had scored 24 goals and created 22 more in 82 appearances for Ajax. But that was not the only reason the fans were excited.
Manchester United's manager Erik Ten-Hag had been in charge at the Eredivisie club where alongside Antony, the team powered to two league titles and a Dutch cup in two seasons. It was a much anticipated reunion many believed would work wonders for United. What could possibly go wrong?
A Promising Start
Antony kicked off his debut season at the Theatre Of Dreams like a house on fire. He scored against Arsenal on his debut, plus another two goals in the next two Premier League games. But in the next 51 games across two seasons at United, Antony only managed to add two more goals to that tally—a disappointing end to such a promising start.
It was not just the output, however, that called for concern. Fans were worried at the quality of his performances, as he seemed a far cry from the electric wing wizard who consistently churned out dazzling performances at Ajax. His body language sometimes depicted frustration, and the team’s results didn't help matters.
Loan on the Cards?
Antony has struggled to replicate his Ajax form at Manchester United. His sputtering stop-starts indicate obvious talent, but he has lacked the consistency required to make an impact at a club like Manchester United.
As teams across Europe look to get their squads in order ahead of the 2024/2025 football season, there have been reports Manchester United might be looking to let Antony leave on loan this summer. However, any deal for Antony would have to factor in his hefty £70,000 wages. United would require any interested club to shoulder a large chunk of that.
What His Agent Has to Say
Antony's agent, Junior Pedroso, recently responded to reports in sections of the media that the Brazilian winger would be shipped off on loan for the season. Speaking to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Pedroso said he was aware of the reports on his client's future, but strongly refuted them.
“He wants to stay, he's only focused on Man United. We already spoke about that with the club”.
On July 8, Antony returned to Carrington with the other players who were not on international duty for pre-season training. Unlike when Manchester United headed to Australia with Ronaldo in 2022, However, the player has not featured in either of United's first two pre-season matches against Rosenberg and Rangers respectively.
Will Erik Ten-Hag Give Him a Chance?
Antony's fate at Manchester United this season could ultimately be in his manager's hands. Fielding questions from journalists on Antony's future at the club, Erik Ten-Hag insisted the Brazilian winger has the tools to succeed at Manchester United.
Speaking to AD, the Manchester United manager said, “I am still convinced that Antony has the potential to play at this club.”
“He certainly showed that potential in the first month. He scored three times in his first three games. After that it became more difficult, last season was not good.”
However, with Argentina youngster Garnacho playing and excelling at right wing last season, and Manchester United reportedly making a move for Girona winger Viktor Tsygankov, it remains to be seen how much this endorsement affects his future.