Antony's Near Miss: How He Almost Joined Manchester United's Biggest Rivals

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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The Early Contenders: Clubs initially interested in Antony before Manchester United.

Before Antony eventually donned the red shirt of Manchester United, several top clubs expressed significant interest in the Brazilian winger. The race for his signature was fierce, with multiple teams vying for his services during the summer transfer window.

• Liverpool: Liverpool's early interest in Antony was reported in the summer of 2022. However, their pursuit stalled due to disagreements over the transfer fee. Ajax, Antony's club at the time, demanded a significant sum, a figure Liverpool were unwilling to match, leading them to explore other attacking options. The Reds' focus shifted, and Antony ultimately remained out of reach.

• Chelsea: Chelsea, known for their lavish spending, were also linked with Antony. Their pursuit, however, was overshadowed by their other high-profile transfer targets. The Blues' busy summer saw them invest heavily in other areas of the squad, meaning Antony’s acquisition didn't become a top priority, despite their initial interest.

• Manchester City: This is where the story takes a dramatic turn. Reports suggest that Manchester City, Manchester United's biggest rivals, held advanced talks with Ajax and Antony himself, even agreeing on personal terms. The potential transfer seemed imminent, creating a huge stir among fans and pundits alike. The possibility of Antony joining Pep Guardiola's squad was a real threat to Manchester United's hopes of securing the player.

The Crucial Negotiations: Key moments that defined Antony's near transfer to the rival club.

The negotiations between Manchester City and Ajax were intense. Several crucial moments defined the near transfer.

• Manchester City's Bid: Manchester City reportedly offered a substantial sum, rumoured to be around €80 million plus add-ons, a considerable offer reflecting Antony's potential.

• Ajax's Stance: Ajax, however, remained firm in their valuation, deeming the initial offer insufficient. They were keen to maximize the profit from the sale of one of their star players.

• Antony's Perspective: Reports indicated that Antony was favorably inclined towards a move to the Etihad, potentially drawn by the prospect of playing under Pep Guardiola and competing for major trophies.

• The Decisive Factor: The decisive factor that ultimately prevented the transfer was Manchester City's failure to meet Ajax's deadline. Negotiations stalled, and Ajax, facing a shrinking window, ultimately redirected their focus.

The Role of Erik ten Hag

Erik ten Hag's influence on Antony's eventual move to Manchester United cannot be overstated. His pre-existing relationship with Antony, forged during their time together at Ajax, proved crucial.

• Personal Connection: Ten Hag's personal connection with Antony offered a unique advantage to Manchester United. He understood Antony's playing style and could offer assurances regarding his role and integration into the team.

• Manchester United's Offer: Manchester United subsequently tabled a competitive offer, perhaps surpassing Manchester City's bid in terms of overall package or guarantees.

• Ten Hag's Influence: Ten Hag's presence was undoubtedly a significant factor in Antony’s decision. The trust and understanding between the player and manager tipped the scales in Manchester United's favour.

The Aftermath: Analyzing the impact of the near-miss on both Antony and the clubs involved.

Antony's decision to join Manchester United, rather than their biggest rivals, had far-reaching consequences.

• Antony's Performance at Manchester United: While his performance has been a subject of debate among fans, Antony has undoubtedly shown glimpses of his talent and potential at Old Trafford.

• Manchester City's Reaction: Manchester City, having missed out on Antony, subsequently pursued other attacking options. Their transfer strategy adapted to the situation.

• Overall Transfer Market Impact: The near-miss highlighted the intense competition in the transfer market and the crucial role personal connections and managerial influence play in securing top talent.

Conclusion:

Antony's near transfer to Manchester City represents a fascinating case study in the complexities of the modern football transfer market. The "Antony Manchester United Rivals" saga demonstrates how personal relationships, financial considerations, and timing can dramatically influence a player's destination. The near-miss ultimately shaped the summer transfer window, influencing the decisions of multiple clubs and the career path of a talented young player. Learn more about Antony's incredible journey and other surprising transfer sagas in football. Explore the world of Antony Manchester United Rivals transfers!