In light of assertions that Newcastle may alleviate Antony’s dismal situation at Manchester United, one analyst has harshly articulated reasons for the Magpies to avoid this pursuit.
Surprise ensued when Manchester United pledged a €100 million (£85 million / $112 million) deal to get Antony from Ajax in 2022. The Brazilian is an elusive and dynamic winger at his best, although such performances have been few at Old Trafford.
Two years later, Antony has fallen in the hierarchy. He has made only one cameo appearance off the bench this season, as Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho have been preferred on the right wing to date.
A recent rumour from Caught Offside said that Newcastle is contemplating a transfer for Antony in 2025, maybe as early as the January window.
Former England international custodian Paul Robinson advises Newcastle to avoid pursuing Antony.
In an interview with Football Insider, Robinson branded Antony as “lightweight.” In addition to his physical struggles, Robinson asserted that Antony excessively holds onto the ball and is unable to adapt to the tempo of the Premier League.
“Antony, I believe no one at Newcastle would consider him,” stated Robinson.
“Observe, there exists a competent player; however, he lacks the physicality required for the Premier League, as he spends excessive time on the ball in a league that demands rapidity.”
“In comparison to other leagues, such as the Dutch league where he excelled, or possibly La Liga in Spain or Ligue 1, these may be more appropriate for a player of his caliber.”
“However, considering his struggles at Manchester United, Newcastle perceives itself as comparable to Manchester United.”
“They are vying for identical objectives, European football, as both aspire to secure a position in the top four, reflecting their current level of competition.”
“Neither the Newcastle fans nor the board will perceive Anthony as a potential enhancement to the team.”
Is there any veracity to the connections between Newcastle and Antony?
Caught Offside said that Newcastle will seriously contemplate acquiring Antony if they are unable to secure their primary target, Anthony Elanga, from Nottingham Forest.
The article stated: ‘Eddie Howe is contemplating an acquisition of Manchester United’s Brazilian winger Antony, should their attempt to secure Anthony Elanga prove unsuccessful.’
Moreover, the site said that Manchester United would approve a deal if offers of about £40 million were presented.
According to TEAMtalk’s sources, Antony maintains a tight relationship with current Newcastle players and fellow Brazilians Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes.
It has been said that Newcastle had admiration for Antony during his tenure at Ajax.
Nonetheless, we recognise that any new acquisition for the right flank would occur solely upon the sale of Miguel Almiron.
Moreover, we cannot verify that Newcastle’s interest in Antony persists to the current day.
Concerns over Matthijs De Ligt / Adrien Rabiot agreement finalised
Bayern Munich director Max Eberl has cited two reasons for approving the transfer of Matthijs de Ligt to Manchester United. The second explanation may be directly to Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils’ prospects of acquiring Adrien Rabiot as a free agent have concluded following the 29-year-old’s agreement with Marseille.
Manchester United considered acquiring Rabiot but reportedly hesitated due to his financial demands, a recurring issue.
Former United striker Dwight Yorke has articulated his belief that the current team is “a million miles away” from securing the Premier League title.
Is Antony the most significant failure in Manchester United’s history?
Antony ranks second on the list of the most costly acquisitions in Manchester United’s history.
Top 10 Signings of Manchester United of All Time
Although the winger may yet succeed, all indications thus far suggest that Antony is a costly failure.
In his almost two years at Old Trafford, the Brazilian has recorded just 11 goals and five assists in 83 games.
Antony will consistently have support at the club as long as Erik ten Hag is in command. Should the Dutch manager be dismissed, it would not be unexpected for Antony to be transferred as well.
Jadon Sancho, frequently included in discussions of significant flops, is sixth on the list (£73m).
Sancho’s tally of 12 goals and six assists in 83 games closely resembles Antony’s, despite Sancho being acquired for £12 million less.
Sancho was loaned to Chelsea for the 2024/25 season, and his agreement includes a conditional obligation to purchase valued at about £25 million.
The provision will activate if Chelsea concludes the season in 14th place or above in the Premier League. Even at their most disordered, the Blues are improbable to conclude the season in 15th place or below.
