The Brazilian midfielder is facing too many difficulties when he cannot meet expectations at Man Utd.
There have been many rumors surrounding the future of the 23-year-old Brazilian striker since the beginning of the season. The winger has faced a lot of controversy since the beginning of the season due to being caught up in a scandal of assaulting his ex-girlfriend. Recently, the former Ajax star was questioned by the police for 5 hours to clarify the incident.
On the field, Antony’s performance up to this point has also been a disaster as he continues to maintain poor form. He appeared in 12 matches for Man Utd and did not contribute any goals or assists. Many fans feel that Antony’s dream at Man Utd is about to end.
This is in stark contrast to his beginnings as a Red Devils player. That’s when Antony scored 3 goals in his first 4 Premier League matches. The winger broke a record to become the first Man United player to score in his first three matches in England’s number one league. Overall, Antony had a relatively good first season.
At this time, everything changed so quickly. Antony personally also faced a series of criticism. Andy Cole is one of the latest former players to be unhappy with Antony and believes the player is “disappointing”. Jermaine Jenas, former Newcastle United midfielder, also called his performance against Fulham “pathetic”.
However, good luck for Antony. Coach Erik ten Hag seems to still have faith in this player. The Dutch military leader has always appreciated Antony and is not ready to let him leave less than 18 months after convincing Man Utd to spend 85 million pounds to complete the transfer.
Ten Hag frequently praised Antony. In April, he declared that “with Antony in the team, Man Utd is easier to win.” Although the Brazil international has had a relatively more successful first season, things will need to change quickly to convince fans.
Don’t forget Antony won 4 “Goal of the Month” awards last season and scored the decisive goal against Barcelona in an impressive Europa League victory. It was one of the most exciting performances from the Old Trafford team in a European Cup for a long time.
Although the starting position is being lost to Alejandro Garnacho, the situation is not the end for Antony. Jadon Sancho’s ongoing problems and Man Utd’s lack of experienced wing options could give Antony a chance to start in the first team in the future.
The Brazilian player still has a lot of work to do to show that he is worth the £85 million price tag. However, as long as he still receives the support of Ten Hag, Antony will have the opportunity to develop his career at Man United.