Ruben Amorim has reportedly made his first big call as Manchester United manager, with the Portuguese coach deciding to sell Antony.
Ruben Amorim Set To Offload ‘Disruptive’ Antony
The former Sporting Lisbon manager has began his tenure in Manchester, after taking control of his first training session at Carrington.
United opted to appoint Amorim after cutting ties with Erik ten Hag, as the Dutchman won just three of the opening nine Premier League matches this season.
Red Devils legend, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, took charge on an interim basis and remained unbeaten in the four matches – beating Leicester in the EFL Cup and Premier League, PAOK in the Europa League and drawing to Chelsea in the league.
Amorim’s time at Sporting Lisbon caught the eye of several clubs, winning Liga Portugal and winning each of the 11 league games this season.
As with most managerial appointments, attention has turned to the possible signing he may make as Manchester United boss – while also looking at who may leave Old Trafford.
A standout feature of Amorim’s tactical approach is his use of the 3-4-3 formation and questions have been raised over United’s options to suit that set-up.
In particular, the Red Devils’ attacking roster has been extremely underwhelming this season, as only Everton, Southampton and Crystal Palace have scored less goals than United in the league.
One player who has struggled to contribute with goals is Brazilian winger, Antony, who has failed to impress since signing from Ajax for around £86 million.
The 2024/25 campaign has been miserable for Antony, failing to start in the Premier League and making just five appearances in all competitions.
With this said, recent reports have indicated that Amorim is planning on offloading the Brazilian flop in the upcoming January transfer window.
Amorim has targeted his former Sporting Lisbon player, Geovany Quenda, as the 17-year-old grows as an exciting prospect in Europe.
The report says (Via Daily Star): “And United boss Ruben Amorim has made Portuguese sensation Geovany Quenda his No.1 choice to replace Antony in what will be a new-look team at Old Trafford.
“United chiefs are keen to offload Antony – and would be willing to sell him to the highest bidder – or loan him out elsewhere – in the middle of the season.”
Recent reports have also suggested that the Brazilian international has become a ‘disruptive’ influence amongst the squad.
The report said: “Ten Hag questioned the £200,000-a-week star’s attitude in training, while United sources claim he has become a disruptive influence in and around the squad.
“United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen to get Antony off the wage bill – and will sanction a move for Quenda next summer.
“Quenda has emerged as one of the brightest young talents in Europe since being promoted to the Sporting Lisbon side by former manager Amorim.”
