The forward has finally spoken out about his post-match celebrations following Manchester United’s narrow escape from embarrassment in their FA Cup semi-final against Coventry, a Championship side, at Wembley last Sunday. Despite a tense 3-3 draw, United secured a spot in the final. The Brazilian’s gesture of cupping his ear towards the Coventry players after winning the shootout prompted discussion, and he has now provided insight into his actions.
In a statement shared on X, he expressed, “Coventry demonstrated their worth in reaching the semi-final. Our aim was to secure this final spot for our fans, and we accomplished it. The treatment our fans received from their player was unpleasant, and in the heat of the moment, I reacted naturally to defend my club against provocations.”
Antony faced criticism from some fans who deemed his behavior “embarrassing,” especially considering the close call United had after squandering a 3-0 lead against lower-league opponents. Premier League player Neal Maupay also ridiculed Antony’s actions. However, manager Erik ten Hag has come to his defense, asserting that the winger reacted to provocation.
Despite his limited goal-scoring record this season, with only two goals for Manchester United, both of which were in the FA Cup against Newport and Liverpool, Antony’s actions in the semi-final have stirred up controversy.
Antony has certainly got people talking!
What did you make of his celebration? 🤔#BBCFootball #FACup pic.twitter.com/1K2djhwQAn
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) April 22, 2024
Coventry proved why they reached the semi-final. We seeked this spot in the final for our fans and we achieved. The way our fans were treated by their player was not nice and I, in the heat of the moment, i’ve reacted to the provocations in a natural defense of my club! https://t.co/y3cz3UhzXf
— Antony Santos (@antony00) April 23, 2024
Antony
Antony Matheus dos Santos
BrazilThis season he played in total 25 times for 1098 minutes for Premier League.
Antony didn’t score any goal for Manchester United. He procured one assist. He received 4 yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 7th in Premier League. In the last match Manchester United drew 2-2 against AFC Bournemouth. The next match in Premier League will be against Sheffield United.
Manchester United performance and stats
Manchester United
Manchester United is currently 7th in the Premier League with 50 points.
In the last 32 games, it has won 15 times, drawn 5 times, and lost 12 times. In its last match, Manchester United drawn 2-2 against AFC Bournemouth.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 47 goals and conceding 48.
Manchester United will play the next match in Premier League against Sheffield United on Wednesday 24th of April in Manchester. The prediction is Manchester United winning the match.
