Andy Cole criticized Manchester United’s transfer strategies by likening them to shopping at “Primark and Zara,” specifically targeting the club’s decision to sign Antony. The Brazilian arrived from Ajax for a hefty £86 million but struggled to replicate his Eredivisie form, scoring only eight goals in 44 games across all competitions in his first season with United. Now, in his second season, Antony has yet to find the net in 12 matches, failing to regain his earlier form.
Despite being United’s second most-expensive signing after Paul Pogba, the 23-year-old is rumored for a potential departure in January. Cole previously expressed how playing alongside Antony would have frustrated him immensely.
Continuing his criticism, Cole questioned United’s judgment in acquiring Antony while commending Brighton’s astute signing of Kaoru Mitoma. He highlighted Antony’s perceived lack of strengths in taking on opponents, creating opportunities, or scoring goals. Cole drew attention to the huge contrast in fees paid for players, comparing Brighton’s £2.7 million investment in Mitoma to United’s £86 million spent on Antony.
He pointed out a trend in United’s transfer history, suggesting the club might be overpaying for players compared to other teams, labeling it as the “Manchester United tax.” Cole emphasized the need for a change in this approach, indicating that United cannot sustain this pattern.
The former Red Devils striker further elaborated on Antony’s shortcomings, particularly criticizing his predictable left-footed approach and reluctance to utilize his right side. According to Cole, Antony’s playing style hampers a center-forward’s ability to anticipate his movements and affects his contributions to goal-scoring opportunities for the team.
Antony
Antony Matheus dos Santos
BrazilThis season he played in total 9 times for 492 minutes for Premier League.
Antony didn’t score any goal for Manchester United. He procured no assists. He received 2 yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 6th in Premier League. In the last match Manchester United won 1-0 against Luton Town. The next match in Premier League will be against Everton.
Manchester United performance and stats
Manchester United is currently 6th in the Premier League with 21 points.
In the last 12 games, it has won 7 times and lost 5 times. In its last match, Manchester United won 1-0 against Luton Town.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 13 goals and conceding 16.
Manchester United will play the next match in Premier League against Everton on Sunday 26th of November in Liverpool. The prediction is Manchester United winning the match.
