When evaluating Manchester United’s performance against Crystal Palace, Jamie Carragher didn’t hold back. The legendary player from Liverpool was not kind to Antony.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher. (Image: Photo by Neal Simpson/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
Following Manchester United’s crushing loss to Crystal Palace, Jamie Carragher unleashed a vicious attack on Antony, calling his actions “embarrassing” and telling him to “shut up”. After being substituted in the second half, Antony whispered to teammates Mason Mount and André Onana in a post-match antics that left the Liverpool legend unimpressed.
The Brazilian forward, who came at a steep cost to United of $108 million (£85 million/€100 million), has failed to produce much of an impact in the Premier League, and both fans and commentators have criticized him for his unimpressive play. His most recent performance in Manchester United’s 4-0 loss to Palace did not appease his detractors, with Carragher being especially outspoken in his criticism.
Carragher stated on Sky Sports, “Just get off the pitch.” Whispering and babbling behind your hand, you have been terrible. Most likely, they are discussing the manager, the setup, another player, or one of the players. Simply leave the field. You have lost 4-0, so shut up and enter. Speaking in whispers and discussing other players. It’s really embarrassing.”
Due to Antony’s high price tag, which has frequently been used against him, fellow pundit Gary Neville stated earlier this season—via the Daily Mirror—that the club will regret signing him. “That one is going to stand out,” he said, referring to the £85 million.
Clearly, he is not even close to that level. However, there are many deals that, when you look at the recruitment, you might start to see the glass half empty. It appears that Manchester United’s hiring division was unable to watch Antony and approve his £85 million contract.”
Erik ten Hag’s team may not play in Europe at all as they have been unable to finish the season on a positive note. In an attempt to restore some dignity, they take on Arsenal at Old Trafford next while managing a plethora of injuries.
Ashley Young, the former captain, is adamant that they won’t be playing in Europe the following season if they play like they did at Selhurst Park. “If they put on displays like they showed tonight, they will miss out,” he said.
“The games they have scheduled are not simple ones, as you can see.” They will run into problems and lose out on a European location if they are unwilling to at least move around.”
Due to their loss at Palace, they have conceded 81 goals in all competitions this year, which is more than they have allowed in a single season since 1976–1977. As things stand, the team may finish the season with a negative goal differential with three games remaining. The 1989–90 Division One season was the last time the Red Devils concluded a season with a negative goal differential; at the moment, they are on minus three.
