Manchester United new £85million man Antony has apologised to Ajax fans after he went on strike to secure his dream Premier League move.
The Brazilian forward was a firm fan favourite in Amsterdam and played a crucial role in the side that won the Eredivisie title under Erik ten Hag last term. But once Ten Hag was lured to Old Trafford by United, Antony was determined to follow the Dutchman to England.
After losing the services of Lisandro Martinez to Ten Hag and Manchester United earlier in the summer, Ajax were, understandably, reluctant to part ways with another of their prized assets - even though United were prepared to offer an astronomical sum to do a deal for the 22-year-old.
And as time ticked away in the summer transfer window, Antony resorted to drastic measures in a desperate bid to salvage his dream switch. The winger refused to report for training and was absent for two league matches before the Dutch giants finally relented and accepted Manchester United's huge £85m offer - making Antony the most expensive transfer in Eredivise history.
Now the dust has settled on his record-breaking move, Antony has tried to make amends with the Ajax fanbase in a farewell interview.
"I felt at home at this club. It's quite difficult," Antony said in his tribute video. "I said goodbye to everyone at the club. From day one, I got an amazing reception, but it is how it is. I will always have this club and the fans in my heart. They always supported me and put me at ease.
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"I'm grateful to my family and to this club that made a lot possible. Even my selection for Brazil began here. I will carry this club with me for the rest of my life and I will always keep an eye on it.
"I'm very happy, very, very happy for this opportunity. I’m very grateful to Ajax for the opportunities they gave me. I have grown to love the club. I am grateful for everything.
"It is how it is. Ajax will always be in my heart. I thank everyone. I thank the board, the players and the club. I thank the fans for their warmth. I'm sorry if I failed you but I'm especially thankful for the great reception I got. I will have this club in my heart for the rest of my life. Thank you."
After completing the formalities of his switch on deadline day, Antony is eligible to make his Old Trafford bow in Sunday's hotly-anticipated meeting with Arsenal, although it remains to be seen if Ten Hag will alter a side that has won three consecutive Premier League matches.
