Manchester United has been warned that allowing £86m disappointment Antony to return to Ajax, whether in January or next summer, would make them appear “like complete idiots.”
The Red Devils were significantly outmaneuvered by Ajax during the summer of 2022 when they paid around £86m to acquire Brazilian international Antony.
The 24-year-old had previously excelled under manager Erik ten Hag at Ajax, who was eager to bring the winger to Old Trafford.
However, Ten Hag may come to regret his choice to take Antony with him, as the flashy forward has failed to deliver at Manchester United.
In the last season, he managed just two goal involvements across 29 Premier League appearances, and this season, his standing within the team has diminished.
So far, Antony has played only 27 minutes in the Premier League this term and is being heavily linked with a potential exit.
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A recent report by The Daily Mail suggested that Manchester United is ‘open’ to selling Antony and he might ‘be loaned out in January’.
‘Manchester United is willing to allow their £86million winger Antony to go out on loan in January as a strategy to facilitate a permanent transfer for the Brazilian next summer.
‘Club sources have not provided specifics regarding Antony’s future, but it is understood that they would consider offers around £40m for the 24-year-old.
‘By loaning Antony out in January for more playtime, United could spark greater interest in him come next summer.’
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This week, Antony was linked to a competing Premier League club, and suggestions have emerged regarding a possible swap deal.
On the other hand, while a return to Ajax is a possibility, Dutch journalist Bart Sanders believes a move to Wolves is more probable, asserting that a transfer back to his former team would make Manchester United look like “complete idiots.”
“More reputable media outlets have mentioned it, but I do not foresee Antony returning to Ajax on loan,” Sanders remarked.
“From a standpoint of reputation, Manchester United would never entertain such a notion. The club would look utterly foolish if they signed someone for a hundred million euros and then, two years later, loan him back to his old club. That would be a significant loss of face, wouldn’t it?!
“He could certainly find opportunities at FC Porto, Benfica, or Wolves… There are plenty of other options. Although Antony had a rough time at Manchester United, he showcased his talent the year Ajax won all six of their Champions League group matches.
“Clubs like Sporting Portugal are still wary of him, so there will be teams interested in taking him on loan.”
Manchester United Warned Against Loaning £86m Flop Antony Back to Ajax
Current Situation of Antony at Manchester United
Manchester United’s investment in Antony, acquired for £86 million from Ajax, has been under scrutiny since his arrival. The Brazilian winger’s performance has been inconsistent, raising questions about whether a loan back to Ajax would be beneficial for both the player and the club. Recent reports suggest that many pundits and analysts are cautioning the club against this move, emphasizing the potential repercussions of such a decision.
Performance Analysis of Antony
Antony’s tenure at Manchester United has been marked by fluctuations in form. To provide a clearer picture, let’s break down his statistics since joining the club.
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 45 | 10 | 8 | 18 |
| 2023-24 (as of October 2024) | 10 | 2 | 1 | 3 |
While Antony started strong, his contributions have diminished significantly in the current season, raising concerns about his adaptability to the Premier League’s demands.
Reasons Against Loaning Antony Back to Ajax
1. Loss of Investment
Loaning Antony back to Ajax could be seen as an admission of failure regarding the £86 million investment. This could set a negative precedent for the club’s financial strategy and player acquisition policy.
2. Developmental Concerns
A loan spell might halt Antony’s development in a competitive environment like the Premier League. Regular exposure to high-caliber opponents is crucial for his growth, something Ajax may not provide at the same level as the English league.
3. Restarting the Cycle
Returning to Ajax may not guarantee a resurgence in form. Footballers often face challenges in mid-career adjustments, and sending him back could complicate his trajectory further. There’s a risk he could struggle again, leading to the same outcome when he returns to Manchester United.
4. Team Dynamics
A loan deal could disrupt the team’s chemistry. The current squad needs players who are committed to the club for the long term. Sending a player back who has already been a significant investment might send the wrong message to both the players and fans.
Potential Alternatives to a Loan
Instead of loaning Antony back to Ajax, Manchester United has several alternatives that could facilitate his development while still retaining his services:
- Intensive Training Programs: Focus on targeted skill development in areas where Antony has struggled.
- Increased Game Time: Utilize him in less crucial matches to build confidence and regain form.
- Mentorship: Pair him with experienced players like Bruno Fernandes to help him adapt and find his rhythm.
Case Studies of Player Loans Gone Wrong
Examining previous cases where clubs loaned out high-value players can provide insight into why Manchester United should reconsider this strategy:
1. Philippe Coutinho
After moving from Liverpool to Barcelona for £142 million, Coutinho was loaned to Bayern Munich. While he initially thrived, his long-term development suffered, and he returned to Barcelona without finding a permanent solution, later transferring to Aston Villa.
2. Jack Grealish
Although Grealish’s loan from Aston Villa to Manchester City was successful for him, it took time for him to adjust. If City had opted for a loan out instead of integrating him fully, they would have missed out on his contributions from the outset.
First-Hand Experience: The Importance of Player Integration
Players often report that being loaned out can be a double-edged sword. While it allows for game time, it can also lead to a lack of cohesion when they return to their parent club. Former players have highlighted:
- Consistency: Regular training with the first team leads to better performance.
- Familiarity with Tactics: Staying within the club ensures that players are well-versed in the manager’s philosophy.
- Immediate Impact: Players who remain can make a more immediate impact during challenging periods, rather than needing time to reintegrate.
Benefits of Retaining Antony at Manchester United
Retaining Antony at Manchester United, despite his struggles, offers several advantages:
- Potential for Growth: Many players experience a slump before finding their form; Antony might be on the verge of a breakthrough.
- Fan Loyalty: Keeping a high-profile player can enhance fan engagement and loyalty, especially if they see the club invest in their development.
- Marketability: Antony’s brand value remains high, which can benefit merchandise sales and overall club marketing.
Conclusion
While the idea of loaning Antony back to Ajax might seem appealing on the surface, the potential risks and long-term implications suggest that Manchester United should explore alternative strategies. By investing in his development and providing the right support, the club could unlock his true potential, ensuring that the £86 million investment pays off in the long run.
