Antony discovers Man Utd future after 'unrealistic' transfer links

Manchester United flop Antony has been instructed that a move back to Brazil is "out of reality". The Brazilian winger, who signed for Manchester United in the summer of 2022 for $111 million, has struggled to validate his big transfer fee, contributing only three goals in 38 appearances last season.

His most notable contribution was during the FA Cup semi-final victory over Coventry City, but it was for all the wrong reasons: Antony was condemned for mocking the Championship side following United's penalty shootout win. An exit has been speculated about this summer.

Rumours have suggested that Antony might make a dramatic return to Sao Paulo where he started his professional journey. However, his agent, Junior Pedroso, shot down these rumors, stating there was absolutely no chance of him returning to his former club in the near future.

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"Talking to President Julio Casares, he assured that there is no possibility of this deal happening, it is something completely out of the reality of Sao Paulo. Antony is not coming back now, his priority is Manchester United," he was quoted saying on Jorge Nicola, via Portal Do Sao Paulino.

United boss Erik ten Hag retains faith in Antony, despite his underwhelming performances but acknowledges that the winger needs to up his game if he intends to succeed at United.

Erik ten Hag, in a conversation with AD Sportwereld, clarified his stance on the club's budget and Antony's performance. He said: "I don't go over the budget. I've never even had a budget. At United, the budgets lie with the owners and management. He [Antony] certainly showed that potential in the first month: he scored three times in his first three games.

"After that it became more difficult, last season was not good. But I am still convinced that he has the potential to play at this club. We want this club back to where it was more than a decade ago, to a club that wins the Premier League , which can win Champions Leagues.

"We are really a long way away from that, I think. I think we've taken steps since then, otherwise we wouldn't have won two prizes. But we are not yet so far that a 'winning culture' already prevails here in all respects. Our standards, our norms and values, still need to go up."

Antony himself acknowledged his poor performance last season but hinted at several undisclosed reasons for it. He remains optimistic about bouncing back stronger after his struggles.

He shared on Instagram : "2023/24 was a very difficult season, for many reasons. But I suffered quietly! I took this period to reflect and seek self knowledge. Today, at the end of another season, I can say that after everything I've been through, I feel much stronger and ready for the challenges."

"Football gave me everything I have, thanks to it, I was able to help my family, change my life and open up a range of opportunities. After time, the experience will give me the tools to achieve my biggest goals, which are success and to build my story in a world as challenging as the one we live in!".