**Antony’s Struggles at Manchester United: From Dream Start to Uncertain Future**
When Antony scored just 35 minutes into his Manchester United debut, it seemed Erik ten Hag’s determination to bring the Brazilian to Old Trafford had been vindicated. The winger, signed from Ajax in a high-profile €95 million deal with an additional €5 million in add-ons, appeared to be the answer to United’s issues on the flanks, especially after Jadon Sancho’s underwhelming debut season.
Antony’s debut goal, giving United the lead in a 3-1 victory over Arsenal, was followed by strikes in Premier League matches against Manchester City and Everton. Three goals in his first six appearances suggested United had made a shrewd investment in a player still adapting to a new league and environment. Patience seemed warranted, and the early signs were encouraging.
### Initial Optimism Turns to Frustration
Despite his promising start, Antony’s output has sharply declined. In the two years since that electrifying debut, he has managed just nine goals in 81 appearances for United, with his only goal this season coming from the penalty spot in a 7-0 Carabao Cup win against third-tier Barnsley.
While Antony’s first season saw him notch eight goals in all competitions, fans were willing to give him time to adjust. However, that goodwill has eroded as his performances failed to justify his hefty price tag. He now finds himself at the bottom of the pecking order for wide positions, a far cry from the high expectations surrounding his arrival.
### Controversy Surrounding His Move
Antony’s move to United wasn’t without drama. In August 2022, he went on strike at Ajax to force through his transfer to Manchester. He refused to play in their 1-0 victory over Sparta Rotterdam, citing a lack of focus. A week later, he was omitted again from the squad for a match against FC Utrecht.
Ajax manager Alfred Schreuder was critical of Antony’s actions, accusing the player of prioritizing money over his commitment to the club. “Nowadays, everything is about money, and I think this is sad,” Schreuder said. Despite the controversy, the deal went through, and hopes were high that Antony could inject creativity into United’s attack.
### Underperforming and Facing an Uncertain Future
Unfortunately for Antony, his performances under Ten Hag have not lived up to expectations. The winger’s reliance on a single skill set and his inability to adapt have left him sidelined, even under a manager who had championed his talents. Now, with Ruben Amorim at the helm, Antony faces an uphill battle to revive his career.
Amorim’s arrival brings a new system and fresh ideas, offering Antony a potential lifeline. However, he remains out of favor and has yet to make a meaningful contribution this season. The winger is running out of time to prove his worth, and failure to adapt could see his Manchester United career come to an early end.
### From Promise to Example of “Dumb Money”?
Antony’s story has the potential to become a cautionary tale. Once seen as a key piece in United’s rebuild, he now risks being remembered as another costly misstep in the club’s transfer dealings. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent criticism of the club’s history of reckless spending has only added to the scrutiny surrounding the Brazilian’s transfer.
For Antony, the road ahead is clear: rediscover the form that made him a marquee signing or risk being shipped out as United continue their efforts to rebuild under new leadership.
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