Antony - Player Profile | The €100m Summer Signing of Manchester United

Antony became a Manchester United player this summer, with the Red Devils putting an end to a two-month-long saga by paying Ajax a fee of €100 million. He thus became Manchester United’s biggest signing of the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old committed to a 5-year contract, which will keep him at Old Trafford until 2027.

Antony scored on his Manchester United debut, in a crucial 3-1 victory against Arsenal. The Brazilian also has started both of United’s Europa League fixtures.

Player Career

Antony joined the Sao Paulo youth system in 2010. He spent 8 years with the junior sides and was part of the J League winning contingent in 2018. Antony was also voted as the best player of the tournament.

In 2018, the Brazilian was promoted to the first-team. He also signed a contract with the club until 2023. Antony made his debut as a substitute in November. In 37 games for Sao Paulo, Antony registered 4 goals and 6 assists (stats via transfermarkt).

The silky winger earned a move to Europe in 2020. Sao Paulo and Ajax agreed on a deal for Antony in February 2020, and the Brazilian joined the Dutch side in July on a five-year deal. Ajax paid a fee that could rise up to £18.2 million.

Antony scored on his debut in a 1-0 victory against Sparta Rotterdam. He claimed the right-wing spot from fellow Brazilian David Neres. In his first season, Antony impressed with 10 goals and 10 assists from 46 appearances (stats via transfermarkt).

Antony to Manchester United, here we go! Agreement in principle with Ajax, €100m fee. Contract until June 2027 with option until 2028. To be signed tomorrow. 🚨🔴🇧🇷 #MUFC

Contracts being prepared, it’s Eredivisie historical record fee — Antony will be in Manchester next week. pic.twitter.com/Wr9mUiX1Ud

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2022

In the 2021-22 season, the former Sao Paulo attacker got 12 goals and 10 assists from 33 games (stats via transfermarkt). However, an ankle injury in March ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

Antony returned to the Ajax line-up for the 2022-23 season. Despite the continuous links to Manchester United, Ajax boss Alfred Schreuder exuded confidence that the winger would remain with the 2019 CL semi-finalists.

Antony also started 2 league games, scoring once and setting up two goals. However, he gave an interview with Fabrizio Romano in late August, confirming his desire to leave. He was also absent from training and was excluded from the final squad for two consecutive games.

What Does Antony Bring to Manchester United?

Antony is an expressive winger who loves to get on the ball. He has a menacing left foot and can be a real shooting threat after cutting in from the right. The Brazilian also loves to take on and beat his man for skill on the flank. He is a cunning dribbler capable of identifying and exposing his marker’s weaknesses with flair. Off the ball, the 22-year-old is hardworking, and a great fit for Erik ten Hag’s system.

Manchester United have struggled to find a perfect right-wing option in recent years. Last season, Ralf Rangnick mostly used Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford, who are better on the left and down the middle respectively. Despite the lofty price, Antony represents a long-term investment in a position where the Red Devils have sorely lacked quality in recent years.

What do you think of Antony’s signing? What is United’s best frontline for the season? Let us know in the comments.

Follow AD for the Latest Transfer Updates for Arsenal.