I went on strike to force a move to Manchester United, but now I find myself relying on Ruben Amorim to revive my career. After facing setbacks and challenges, I’m seeking a fresh opportunity under Amorim’s guidance to rediscover my form and potential.
Antony transferred to Manchester United from Ajax during the summer of 2022 in a deal valued at up to £85.5 million
When Antony scored just 35 minutes into his Manchester United debut, Erik ten Hag likely felt validated in his decision to sign the Brazilian winger. The Dutchman had championed Antony’s arrival despite the club’s significant investment in Jadon Sancho the previous year. Sancho struggled during his first season, scoring only five goals in 38 matches, prompting Ten Hag to believe Antony was the solution to United’s wide-area issues.
Antony’s debut goal in a 3-1 victory against Arsenal appeared to vindicate Ten Hag’s summer-long pursuit of his former Ajax star. Antony followed up with goals against Manchester City and Everton, scoring three in his first six games for the club. Early signs suggested the €95 million investment, with an additional €5 million in add-ons, was justified. Fans believed Antony deserved time to adapt to life in England and expected him to flourish under Ten Hag’s guidance.
However, two years later, those expectations remain unmet. After scoring just nine goals in 81 appearances since his debut, Antony has struggled to make a meaningful impact. His only goal this season came from the penalty spot in a Carabao Cup match against third-tier Barnsley. Though he finished his first season with eight goals, United supporters have grown impatient. Antony now finds himself at the bottom of the pecking order for a spot on the wing.
Adding to the frustration is the memory of Antony going on strike in August 2022 to force through his move from Ajax to United. He refused to play in matches against Sparta Rotterdam and FC Utrecht, leaving Ajax manager Alfred Schreuder to criticize his actions as being motivated by money. Schreuder lamented the influence of financial interests on modern football and expressed disappointment in Antony’s lack of focus on Ajax.
The winger’s transfer to Old Trafford was ultimately completed, with the hope he would bring creativity to United’s attack. Instead, Antony risks being labeled as another example of the club’s misguided spending. Now, under new United head coach Ruben Amorim, Antony faces the daunting task of reviving his career. With limited opportunities and no significant performances this season, his time at United could soon come to an end unless he quickly adapts to Amorim’s vision and earns his place in the
squad.