How Antony Almost Joined Manchester United's Biggest Rivals

Mei Lin

4 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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Antony's Rising Star at Ajax

Antony's journey to the Premier League began at Ajax Amsterdam. The Eredivisie provided the perfect stage for this exceptionally skillful Brazilian winger to showcase his talent. His performances weren't just eye-catching; they were statistically impressive. He consistently contributed goals and assists, quickly establishing himself as a key player for Ajax. His ability to beat defenders with his close control and quick feet, combined with a clinical eye for goal, made him a coveted asset for many top European clubs.

• Broke into the Ajax first team at a young age: Antony's rapid progression through the ranks is a testament to his natural ability and dedication.
• Consistent goal contributions in the Eredivisie and Champions League: He wasn't just a flashy player; he delivered results, consistently finding the back of the net and setting up teammates.
• Demonstrated exceptional technical ability and flair: Antony's dribbling skills and overall flair made him a joy to watch, captivating fans and scouts alike.
• Gained international recognition with Brazil: His impressive performances at club level earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team, further cementing his status as a rising star.

Manchester City's Initial Interest

The whispers started early. Reports emerged linking Antony with a move to Manchester City, a club renowned for its meticulous scouting network and its pursuit of the world's best talent. Pep Guardiola, known for his preference for technically gifted and versatile wingers, saw in Antony a potential addition to his already formidable squad. City's need for attacking width, particularly after the departure of certain players, potentially fuelled their interest. While concrete details regarding bids and negotiations remain scarce, the speculation alone suggests a serious interest from the reigning Premier League champions.

• City's need for attacking width: Manchester City's tactical system often relies on wide players to stretch the opposition's defense.
• Guardiola's preference for versatile and technically gifted players: Antony’s skillset perfectly aligned with Guardiola's preferred style of play.
• Reports of initial scouting and contact with Ajax: The rumours of initial contact between Manchester City and Ajax suggest a concrete level of interest.
• Potential obstacles or reasons for City's withdrawal from the race: While reasons for City's eventual withdrawal aren't entirely clear, factors such as transfer fees or competition from other clubs may have played a role.

The Pivotal Shift to Manchester United

The narrative took a dramatic turn when Erik ten Hag, Antony's former manager at Ajax, joined Manchester United. This pre-existing relationship proved crucial. Ten Hag’s familiarity with Antony’s abilities and potential, coupled with Manchester United’s willingness to meet Ajax’s demands, paved the way for a swift transfer. The reported transfer fee was substantial, reflecting Antony's talent and the intense competition for his signature. This move highlighted the significant impact a manager's influence can have on a player's decision.

• Ten Hag's familiarity with Antony's abilities and potential: Ten Hag knew exactly what Antony could bring to the team.
• The manager's influence on the player's decision: Ten Hag’s presence at Old Trafford was undeniably a major factor in Antony's choice.
• Manchester United's willingness to meet Ajax's demands: The successful negotiation demonstrates Manchester United's commitment to securing their manager's top target.
• The impact of the transfer on both clubs: The transfer significantly boosted Manchester United's attacking options, while Ajax received a substantial financial windfall.

Analyzing the Missed Opportunity for Manchester City

Manchester City's failure to secure Antony's signature presents a fascinating case study in the transfer market. While City already boasts a wealth of attacking talent, Antony’s unique skillset could have provided additional depth and versatility, offering a different attacking dimension. The missed opportunity underscores the competitive nature of the modern transfer market and the potential consequences of failing to secure a top target. Analyzing this near-miss could prompt a review of City's recruitment strategy and highlight potential areas for improvement.

Conclusion

Antony's near-transfer to Manchester City highlights the unpredictable nature of the football transfer market. While he ultimately chose Manchester United, the saga reveals the intense competition among top clubs for elite talent and the crucial role a manager's influence can play in shaping a player's career. His move to Old Trafford showcases the impact of strong player-manager relationships and the strategic decisions that define the success or failure of a club's transfer strategy. Learn more about other exciting transfer sagas and how they impact the Premier League by exploring our other articles. Don't miss out on the latest updates on Antony and his performance at Manchester United! Search "Antony Manchester United" to stay informed.