Manchester United winger Antony has been labelled a “failure” by pundits after his display and controversial celebration in his team’s penalty shootout FA Cup semi-final victory over Coventry City last weekend.
The Red Devils scraped through to the final against Championship opposition, having sacrificed a 3-0 lead with just 20 minutes of normal time remaining. Erik ten Hag’s side looked to be heading out of the competition when Victor Torp scored what looked to be a last-minute winner in stoppage time of extra time, before VAR ruled out the goal for offside. Man Utd would eventually win on penalties and will face Manchester City in the FA Cup final in May.
Antony, who joined United from Ajax in September 2022, has failed to live up to expectations this season. The Brazilian has struggled to justify the price tag spent on securing his signature, and has registered just 15 goal contributions in 78 appearances for the Red Devils.
Antony was involved in a controversial incident after United’s penalty shootout victory over Coventry. The winger was substituted onto the pitch with the score at 3-0 in favor of Man Utd, but was powerless to stop the Sky Blues’ inspired comeback to 3-3 to take the game to penalties. Following the Red Devils’ eventual triumph, Antony was seen cupping his ear and goading opposition players.
Antony’s actions have been criticized by some pundits, who believe that the winger could be sold during the summer transfer window. Journalist Steve Bates told GIVEMESPORT that Antony has not performed to a high enough level on a consistent basis since his arrival almost two years ago and could be one of the first sales of the 2024 summer transfer window.