Antony breaks silence and sends powerful message to Man Utd fans after ‘very difficult season,’ he sets the record straight, Antony, Manchester United’s enigmatic Brazilian winger, has finally broken his silence, revealing the personal struggles that plagued him during a turbulent debut season with the Red Devils. In an emotional Instagram post, Antony opened up about the difficulties he faced adjusting to life in England, the intense pressure of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs, and his fierce determination to prove his doubters wrong.
Manchester United’s winger Antony has opened up about the challenges he faced during the 2023-24 season at Old Trafford. After his high-profile transfer from Ajax, where he reunited with Erik ten Hag, Antony has endured substantial criticism.
Antony, 24, was acquired by Manchester United in 2022 for £81.3 million, a considerable sum that underscored the high expectations for his performance. Having excelled under Ten Hag at Ajax, it was anticipated that Antony would transition smoothly to the Premier League. However, the Brazilian has struggled to meet these expectations, despite Ten Hag’s ongoing support.
Throughout the 2023-24 season, Antony’s performance was disappointing. He netted only one goal and provided a single assist in 29 Premier League matches. Across all competitions, he appeared 38 times, with a notable highlight of scoring twice in four FA Cup matches. As the season advanced, his starting position became less secure, with younger player Amad Diallo often preferred. By season’s end, Antony was frequently an unused substitute in key games, including the final two Premier League matches and the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Despite these setbacks, Antony remains committed to proving his worth at Manchester United. On Instagram, he openly discussed his struggles, acknowledging the difficulties of the 2023-24 season and his period of silent suffering. He used this time for reflection and personal growth. “2023/24 was a very difficult season, for many reasons. But I suffered quietly!” he wrote. Antony conveyed a renewed strength and readiness to face future challenges, expressing gratitude for the opportunities football has given him.
Reflecting on his journey, Antony highlighted how football has transformed his life, supported his family, and opened many doors. He expressed thanks to God, his family, fans, teammates, and the Manchester United staff for their unwavering support. His determination to succeed and leave a lasting legacy in football was clear.
During the season, Antony had moments that showcased his potential, notably in Manchester United’s 4-3 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals. Coming off the bench, he scored a crucial goal, demonstrating his ability to impact the game significantly. Post-match, Antony discussed his efforts to improve and learn from criticism, emphasizing his commitment to evolving as a player. “It has been a period of a lot of learning. I try to learn from each criticism, understand where I can improve,” he said.
Antony’s desire to repay Manchester United’s faith in him was evident in his words and actions. He acknowledged the support from his teammates and family, which boosted his confidence on the field. Grateful for the chance to play for his dream club, Antony remains focused on proving his potential and contributing to Manchester United’s success.
Amid these personal reflections, changes at Old Trafford seem imminent. Noted football journalist Fabrizio Romano has hinted at potential departures, revealing that one of Manchester United’s stars is in talks with other clubs. With Ineos’s arrival, significant changes are expected, marking a new era for Manchester United. Antony, during this transitional period, is determined to cement his place and make a significant impact in the coming seasons.
