The Pressure Mounts: Can Antony Overcome Doubts and Deliver For Manchester United?

Jadon Sancho’s lackluster performance at Manchester United has drawn attention to the struggles of another pricey winger, Antony, whose £85 million transfer fee raises questions about his abilities. While Sancho departs for Borussia Dortmund, Antony’s role in accelerating this exit places a spotlight on the Brazilian winger. Manchester United faces a winger dilemma, and the uncertainty surrounding Antony’s capacity to resolve it remains a pivotal concern.

Sancho’s challenges were multifaceted, marked by a notable seventh position in the Premier League for expected assists from open play last season, indicating potential promise that went unfulfilled. Antony’s presence, coupled with Sancho’s departure, intensifies the focus on the Brazilian. Concerns arise over whether Antony can meet the expectations placed on him, given the doubts expressed since his initial move.

Critics, including Dutch legends Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit, have questioned Antony’s playing style and effectiveness, with doubts persisting even during his time at Ajax. Former United player Jaap Stam, following Antony’s career, described his performance in the Eredivisie as merely satisfactory. The comparisons with other players who moved from the Dutch league, like Dusan Tadic and Cody Gakpo, further highlight Antony’s challenges.

Antony’s one-footedness and lack of dynamism have contributed to his struggles, especially in beating opponents on the outside. His tendency to come inside has been noticeable, presenting challenges when lacking the power for impactful shots or the creativity for incisive passes. The inability to thrive in counter-attacking situations, a key aspect under manager Erik ten Hag, has further exposed Antony’s limitations.

While Antony excels in pressing and winning possession in the final third, his physicality falls short when capitalizing on open spaces. The comparison with former Ajax teammate Mohammed Kudus, who has excelled at West Ham, highlights Antony’s shortcomings in technique and decision-making.

Gary Neville suggests that Antony needs to simplify his game and develop consistent patterns to enhance his effectiveness. However, with Antony turning 24 soon, entering the peak years for a winger, the question of whether he can meet expectations and find consistency on the pitch remains uncertain. The competition with Sancho, now resolved for reasons beyond the field, leaves Antony at a crossroads in his Manchester United career.