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Manchester United’s Antony posted a heartfelt message on Instagram claiming that he has really struggled this year but has come out the other side ready to face the challenges of next season.
The Brazilian had a mixed debut season at United where he scored eight goals in 44 appearances after joining for £86m in August 2022. A late winner against Barcelona in the Europa League was the highlight of the winger’s first campaign in England.
However, things took a turn for the worst this season when their player was charged with assault in his native Brazil and England in early September.
The player was initially left out of the squad but was quickly reinstated by Erik ten Haag, although his form never improved.
Despite a highlight when United equalized against Liverpool in a dramatic 4-3 FA Cup quarter-final win in March, Antony endured a nightmare second season. He scored just three goals and provided two assists in 38 appearances for the Red Devils.
Additionally, his overall game was heavily criticized and the only thing he did consistently well was win the ball in the final third of the pitch – which he did better than anyone else in the league. However, this is hardly the yardstick by which to judge a successful Manchester United winger, especially one at his price.
Speaking about his terrible season, Antony posted on Instagram: “2023/24 was a very difficult season for many reasons. But I suffered silently! 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 challenges.”
“Football gave me everything I have, thanks to it I was able to help my family, change my life and open up a number of opportunities. In time, experience will give me the tools to achieve my greatest goals, which are success and to build my story in a world as challenging as the one we live in! I thank God, my family, our fans, my colleagues at work and all the Manchester United staff!!”
The post is accompanied by a video of some of the highlights of the player’s season, culminating in a joyous FA Cup celebration.
United are said to be happy to offload the winger this summer as he has been firmly replaced by Alejandro Garnacho in the starting line-up and even Amad Diallo has started to get more game time than the Brazilian at the end of the season.
However, the lack of buyers and the players’ huge salaries and high price are not particularly conducive to a quick sale.
Additionally, Antonio’s defiant words seem to suggest he hasn’t given up on his dream of making it to Old Trafford despite how unrealistic it is for most fans right now.
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