How Antony Almost Signed For Manchester United's Rivals

Omar Yusuf

5 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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Keywords: Antony, Manchester United, Ajax, transfer, rivals, Premier League, football, soccer, transfer saga, close call, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Erik ten Hag

The summer transfer window is always a whirlwind of speculation, negotiations, and ultimately, decisions that shape the landscape of football for years to come. One such saga that captivated fans worldwide involved Antony, the talented Brazilian winger, and his almost-move to a club other than Manchester United – a transfer that almost redefined the power balance in the Premier League. This article delves into the details of this captivating near-miss, exploring the twists and turns that ultimately led Antony to Old Trafford.

Antony's Rise at Ajax: Setting the Stage for a Big Move

Antony's electrifying performances at Ajax Amsterdam firmly established him as one of the most exciting young talents in European football. His blistering pace, skillful dribbling, and eye for goal made him a constant threat, attracting the attention of top clubs across the continent. His time at Ajax wasn't just about individual brilliance; he was a key contributor to the club's success, playing a vital role in their domestic and European campaigns.

• Goals scored: Over 20 goals in all competitions during his time at Ajax, including crucial strikes in the Eredivisie and UEFA Champions League.
• Key assists: Numerous assists showcasing his ability to create chances for teammates, highlighting his all-around attacking prowess.
• Media recognition: Featured prominently in football publications and received widespread praise from pundits for his exceptional talent and potential.

The Manchester United Interest and Negotiations

Manchester United's interest in Antony was widely reported, with initial contact between the two clubs taking place early in the summer transfer window. The reported transfer fee was substantial, reflecting Antony's burgeoning reputation and the fierce competition for his signature. Negotiations were protracted, with periods of seeming progress followed by setbacks, creating a rollercoaster of emotions for fans of both clubs.

• Initial bid: Reports suggested initial bids from Manchester United were significantly below Ajax's valuation, causing delays in the process.
• Key figures: The involvement of Erik ten Hag, Antony's former manager at Ajax, played a significant role in the negotiations, adding another layer of intrigue to the situation.
• Timeline: The drawn-out nature of the talks fueled intense speculation and kept the transfer rumour mill churning for weeks.

Rivals Enter the Fray: Unexpected Competition

While Manchester United seemed to be the frontrunners for much of the process, a rival Premier League club emerged as a serious contender for Antony's signature. Although the exact details remain somewhat shrouded in secrecy, reports suggested that both Chelsea and Liverpool made significant attempts to secure his services. The allure of playing for a club with a similarly rich history and a chance at immediate Champions League football presented a compelling alternative.

• Rival club's offer: Speculation points to competitive financial packages and promises of key roles within the team as incentives.
• Reasons for temptation: The opportunity to play in a different system and potentially challenge for major trophies immediately could have swayed Antony's decision.
• Press leaks: While not officially confirmed, several football news outlets hinted at the rival clubs' interest, adding to the already intense speculation.

The Final Decision: Why Antony Chose Manchester United (or Almost Didn't)

Ultimately, Antony chose to join Manchester United. The presence of Erik ten Hag, his former manager at Ajax, undoubtedly played a significant role in his decision-making process. The familiarity and trust between player and manager provided a sense of stability and comfort, potentially mitigating some of the risks associated with a high-profile move to a new league.

• Antony's comments: Post-transfer interviews emphasized his desire to work under ten Hag again and contribute to Manchester United's resurgence.
• Agent's role: Antony's agent likely played a pivotal role in negotiating the best possible deal, weighing up the various options and their implications.
• Ten Hag's influence: The manager's personal appeal and the promise of a key role within the team ultimately proved decisive.

The Aftermath: Impact on Both Clubs

Antony's arrival at Manchester United significantly bolstered their attacking options and added a dynamic element to their forward line. However, the potential loss of the Brazilian star to a rival club would have had a substantial impact on their own transfer strategy and squad balance.

• Manchester United's squad dynamics: The addition of Antony created a highly competitive and talented attacking unit.
• Rival club's missed opportunity: The rival club was left to assess its options and explore alternative targets, impacting their overall transfer activity.
• Long-term implications: Both clubs will feel the long-term effects of this transfer saga, in terms of on-field performance and overall club ambitions.

Conclusion:

The Antony transfer saga serves as a compelling reminder of the unpredictable nature of the football transfer market. The near-miss with Manchester United's rivals highlights the intricate web of factors—managerial influence, personal preferences, and competitive offers—that contribute to a player's final decision. Antony's eventual choice to join Manchester United had significant repercussions for both clubs involved. Learn more about other surprising near-misses in football transfers and subscribe to stay updated on the latest transfer news! Search “football transfer sagas” or "Antony Manchester United transfer" to discover more exciting stories.