Ajax head coach Alfred Schreuder has confirmed that Antony was left out of his plans for this lunchtime's clash with Sparta Rotterdam because he was not in the right frame of mind to be involved.
The Brazilian is being heavily linked with a move to Manchester United ahead of the transfer window closing in less than a fortnight's time and has reportedly gone on 'strike' in an effort to push a deal through. It was reported that he did not participate in training on Friday and Saturday and that he and his representatives are pushing Ajax to negotiate a deal with United.
The Reds, who are on the cusp of finalising the signing of fellow Brazilian Casemiro from Real Madrid, had earmarked Antony as one of their top targets at the start of the window but they cooled their interest as a result of Ajax's financial demands. They consider the 22-year-old as one of their star assets and do not want to lose him.
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However, United have rekindled their interest over the past week or so and remain determined to add to their attacking options ahead of the window slamming shut. It has been a leading priority to add a versatile forward to the squad all summer.
And after Antony was left out of the squad this lunchtime, it has only further increased speculation that United might end up getting their man, who chalked up 12 goals in all competitions last season. Ahead of kick-off, Ajax chief Schreuder explained why the Brazilian had not been included the squad, suggesting that he was not focused on the task in hand.
Speaking to ESPN, he said: "Antony is not in the squad. I spoke with Antony and he told me that he didn't feel 100 per cent ready to play.
"I only want players in the squad that are 100 per cent focused on Ajax."
Antony, who has scored one goal and grabbed two assists in two Eredivisie appearances so far this season, is keen on being reunited with United manager Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford. He blossomed under the Dutchman's management since joining Ajax from Sao Paulo in 2020.
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