Manchester United’s star winger Antony has been candid about his difficulties throughout the 2023-24 season at Old Trafford. The former Ajax player, who reunited with manager Erik ten Hag after a significant transfer, has faced an onslaught of criticism.
Antony, 24, joined Manchester United in 2022 with an initial transfer fee of £81.3 million, a substantial investment reflecting the high expectations surrounding his performance. Having thrived under Ten Hag’s leadership at Ajax, many believed Antony would seamlessly transition to the Premier League and replicate his success. However, the Brazilian international has struggled to justify his hefty price tag, despite continued support from Ten Hag.
Throughout the 2023-24 season, Antony’s performance was underwhelming. He managed to score only one goal and provide a single assist in 29 Premier League matches. Across all competitions, he made 38 appearances, with a modest highlight of scoring twice in four FA Cup matches. As the season progressed, his place in the starting lineup became increasingly tenuous, with younger talent Amad Diallo taking precedence. By the end of the season, Antony found himself as an unused substitute in crucial fixtures, including the last two Premier League games and the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Despite these challenges, Antony has remained resolute in his commitment to proving his worth at Manchester United. Taking to Instagram, he addressed his struggles openly, acknowledging the difficulties of the 2023-24 season. He revealed that he endured a period of silent suffering and used the time for introspection and personal growth. “2023/24 was a very difficult season, for many reasons. But I suffered quietly!” he shared. Antony expressed a renewed sense of strength and readiness to face future challenges, emphasizing his gratitude for the opportunities football has provided him.
Reflecting on his journey, Antony spoke about how football has been instrumental in transforming his life, helping his family, and opening doors to numerous opportunities. He thanked God, his family, fans, teammates, and the entire Manchester United staff for their unwavering support. Antony’s determination to bounce back was evident as he expressed his aspirations to achieve success and leave a lasting legacy in the competitive world of football.
Throughout the season, Antony had moments where he showcased his potential, particularly during Manchester United’s dramatic 4-3 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals. Coming off the bench, he scored a crucial goal, demonstrating his ability to make a significant impact. Post-match, Antony discussed his silent efforts to improve and learn from criticism, highlighting his commitment to evolving as a player. “It has been a period of a lot of learning. I try to learn from each criticism, understand where I can improve,” he stated.
Antony’s determination to repay Manchester United’s faith in him was evident in his words and actions. He acknowledged the confidence his teammates and family instilled in him, which bolstered his self-assurance on the field. Grateful for the opportunity to play for his dream club, Antony remains focused on proving his potential and contributing to Manchester United’s success.
Amidst these personal reflections, the future at Old Trafford appears poised for change. Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano recently stirred speculation by revealing that one of Manchester United’s current stars is in discussions with other clubs, hinting at potential departures. With the arrival of Ineos, significant changes are anticipated, marking the beginning of a new era for Manchester United. Antony, amid this transitional period, remains determined to solidify his place and make a meaningful impact in the seasons to come.