Manchester United marquee signing Antony promised to ‘always stand’ with Erik ten Hag after the Dutchman left Ajax for Old Trafford before the pair reunited for good on Tuesday.
Ten Hag took over from Ralf Rangnick after the end of last season and has wasted no time in attempting to stamp his authority on the United team. Antony is set to become the fourth most expensive signing in Premier League history after joining for an initial fee of £81.3 million.
Antony joined the iconic Amsterdam club from Sao Paulo in 2020, where he starred under Ten Hag. The attacker - who scored 24 goals and tallied 22 assists in 82 appearances for Ajax - becomes United's fifth signing of the summer, following the arrivals of his former Ajax team-mate Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro from Real Madrid, Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord and Christian Eriksen on a free transfer.
The Brazilian was reportedly targeted by United early in the window and the long-running saga has finally reached the end after he signed with the Red Devils. However, the winger always had his heart set on a move to the Premier League and Old Trafford in particular.
In a farewell video message to Ten Hag after he completed his own move to Manchester, Antony said: “I want to wish you all the best at your new club. I also want to thank you for everything you taught me.
“I am thankful all the opportunities and learning every day. Know that I will always stand with you if you need me.”
Do you think Antony will live up to his price tag at Manchester United? Let us know in the comments section.
Ten Hag signed Antony for Ajax and he helped the Dutch giants clinch two Eredivisie titles. The 22-year-old also contributed seven goals in his 11 Champions League appearances, proving he can perform on the biggest stage.
Antony made his international debut for Brazil in October 2021 and has two goals in nine appearances. His transfer means United have spent in excess of £210m in the summer transfer window to back Ten Hag, while a number of key players - Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata, Nemanja Matic, Edinson Cavani and Andreas Pereira - have departed.
Bruno Fernandes scored the winner against Southampton at St Mary’s on the weekend, and United travel to Leicester City for their next Premier League clash on Thursday. It is unlikely that Antony will feature as he requires a work permit before making an appearance.
