Despite being called a “clown” by Paul Scholes and forewarned by the manager of Manchester United’s opponents this weekend, Antony has determined to keep on performing for the Red Devils.
The 22-year-old Brazilian winger divided opinion when he executed his hallmark move, the Antony 720-degree spin, twice in rapid succession during Thursday’s 3-0 Europa League victory over Sheriff Tiraspol.
Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag gave a disapproving headshake after Antony continued to kick the ball out of play rather than to a teammate during the showboating.
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The double spin naturally sparked some commotion as viewers on social media and experts in studios discussed whether it is good or bad for a player to express himself on the field before foolishly giving away possession.
Former United player Paul Scholes under Sir Alex Ferguson who won the Premier League 11 times, is not likely to have taken well to that. The legendary player said in his role as TV pundit:
“I like to see skills and entertainment, I just don’t think it’s skill or entertainment – it’s just being a clown.”
“He needs that knocking out of him.”
With regard to upcoming repeats, Erik ten Hag agreed to speak with his player, but Antony previously made it known on social media that he meant to do so.
He uploaded a video of his 720-degree spin during his battle with Sheriff to his Instagram account with the caption:
“We’re known for our art and I won’t stop doing what got me to where I am!” he wrote in Portuguese on his Instagram page.
Antony has addressed criticism of his use of skill moves in the past. The Sao Paulo academy alumnus discussed the unfavorable response with Dutch publication De Telegraaf back in February.
He said: “I don’t care what other people think about it. No matter what people say, I remain focused.” “Even Jesus, who was perfect, couldn’t please everybody. So who am I to please everybody?”
“Some people love my tricks, some people don’t like it.”
“I find them functional and I do them because I want to show my opponent that I am the boss. And very often it leads to an assist or goal.”
Erik ten Hag has pledged to “correct” the Brazilian if he believed his player was spinning for no reason at all.
“When there is a trick like that, it’s nice as long as it’s functional,” The boss said.
“If you’re not losing the ball, then it’s OK – but if it’s a trick because of a trick, then I will correct him.”
Ten Hag on Antony’s showboating, Ronaldo and Alejandro Garnacho after 3-0 win over Sheriff
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