Revealed: Antony's Almost-Move To Man Utd's Biggest Rivals

Omar Yusuf

5 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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The Leading Contenders: Who Almost Signed Antony Before Man Utd?

Several Premier League giants were seriously considered by Antony and his agent before the Manchester United transfer materialized. Concrete offers and extensive negotiations were reported, but ultimately, the deal fell through with other clubs. Let's examine some key contenders:

• Club A: Liverpool: Liverpool showed significant interest in Antony, viewing him as a potential replacement for their aging wingers. Reports suggested a bid in the region of £70 million was submitted, but the deal ultimately stalled due to Liverpool's perceived reluctance to meet Ajax's asking price. This reluctance, coupled with Liverpool's pursuit of other attacking options, opened the door for other clubs. The Antony Manchester United transfer rumors intensified as Liverpool's pursuit cooled down.

• Club B: Chelsea: Chelsea, known for their extravagant spending in the transfer market, were also heavily linked with Antony. While no specific bid amount was ever publicly confirmed, sources indicated that Chelsea's offer, though substantial, lacked the personal touch that ultimately secured the Antony Manchester United transfer. The club’s reported internal disagreements regarding transfer strategy further hindered their efforts.

• Analysis: Liverpool's cautious approach to the asking price, combined with their simultaneous pursuit of other targets, contrasted sharply with Manchester United’s swift and decisive action. Chelsea's internal struggles and arguably less-focused approach also meant they missed out on signing the exciting Brazilian winger. Manchester United's willingness to meet Ajax's demands and Erik ten Hag's personal relationship with Antony proved decisive in securing the deal.

Antony's Preferences and Agent Influence: The Key Decision Factors

Antony's personal motivations played a crucial role in his final decision. While financial incentives undoubtedly factored in, the prospect of reuniting with his former manager, Erik ten Hag, at Manchester United proved to be a significant draw.

• Playing Style: Antony's skillful dribbling and penchant for cutting inside onto his stronger right foot aligned perfectly with Ten Hag's tactical system. This strategic fit likely swayed his decision towards Old Trafford.

• Agent Influence: Antony's agent, while undoubtedly prioritizing his client's financial interests, likely played a significant role in weighing the various offers and assessing which club offered the best long-term prospects for his career. The influence extended beyond just financial considerations; the stability and project offered by Manchester United likely played a key role.

• Decision Factors: The allure of Champions League football, the potential for significant playing time, and the overall ambition of the Manchester United project all likely contributed to the final decision. The package offered by Manchester United was seemingly more compelling than what other clubs could provide.

The Manchester United Factor: Securing the Deal

Manchester United's decisive pursuit of Antony proved pivotal in securing his signature. Their swift action and willingness to meet Ajax's demands set them apart from the competition.

• Speed and Decisiveness: Manchester United demonstrated a willingness to act quickly and decisively, capitalizing on the opportunities presented by Liverpool and Chelsea's hesitation. This decisive approach proved crucial in winning the race for Antony’s signature.

• Financial Terms: The transfer fee, reported to be around £85 million, showcased Manchester United's financial muscle and commitment to strengthening their squad under Ten Hag. This significant investment signaled their seriousness about securing the player.

• Ten Hag's Influence: Erik ten Hag's prior relationship with Antony at Ajax played a crucial role. The familiarity and trust between the two likely eased the transition and accelerated the decision-making process. Having a manager he already knew and trusted was a huge benefit to both the player and the club.

The Aftermath: Impact on Antony's Career and Rival Clubs

Antony's performance at Manchester United has been a mixed bag. His early performances showed flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been an issue. His transfer has undoubtedly had an impact on his career trajectory and that of the rival clubs.

• Antony's Success at Man Utd: While undoubtedly talented, Antony's time at Manchester United has been marked by both impressive performances and periods of inconsistency, highlighting the challenges of adapting to the Premier League.

• Alternative Career Paths: Had he joined Liverpool or Chelsea, his career path might have been significantly different. The tactical systems and team dynamics of these clubs could have influenced his development and playing style in various ways. His style might have fit better in one system compared to another.

• Impact on Rivals: Liverpool and Chelsea's missed opportunity to sign Antony has led to them exploring other attacking options, influencing their transfer strategies and squad composition for the current and future seasons.

Conclusion:

This article revealed the surprising near-misses in Antony's transfer saga, highlighting the intense competition between several top clubs, and examining the key factors that ultimately led to his move to Manchester United. The near transfer to Antony's rivals showcased the complexity of modern football transfers, highlighting the interplay of financial considerations, managerial relationships, and the player's personal preferences. The Antony Manchester United transfer serves as a compelling case study in the high-stakes world of football acquisitions.

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