Antony On Almost Joining Manchester United's Arch-Rivals

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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Which Club Almost Secured Antony's Signature?

The club that came incredibly close to securing Antony's signature before he ultimately joined Manchester United was, according to reports, Liverpool. The timing of this almost-transfer is crucial; it appears the negotiations took place in the summer transfer window of 2022, before Antony’s eventual move to Old Trafford. Several sources suggest the deal was surprisingly close to completion, with only minor details seemingly holding it up. The precise nature of these stumbling blocks remains unclear, fueling further speculation.

• Transfer Negotiations: Sources suggest that Liverpool engaged in serious discussions with Ajax, Antony's previous club, regarding a potential transfer.
• Almost Signed: Reports indicate that Antony was seriously considering the move to Anfield, attracted by Liverpool's reputation and Champions League football.
• Close Call: The deal ultimately fell through, leaving many to wonder what might have been.
• Premier League Transfer: This near-miss highlights the intense competition within the Premier League transfer market, where top players are constantly courted by multiple elite clubs.

Antony's Perspective on the Near-Transfer to a Rival Club

While Antony himself hasn't explicitly confirmed these reports in a detailed interview, his actions and subsequent statements speak volumes. His commitment to Manchester United has been evident since his arrival, suggesting any lingering doubts about his decision have been firmly laid to rest. Although we lack direct quotes explicitly addressing the Liverpool near-miss, his consistent strong performances in a Red Devils shirt suggest he’s happy with his choice. It's reasonable to assume that factors such as Erik ten Hag's presence at Manchester United (his former manager at Ajax) played a significant role in his final decision.

• Antony Quotes: While no official statements directly mention the Liverpool near-miss, his post-match interviews often express his delight at playing for Manchester United.
• Manchester United Commitment: His on-field performance and behavior strongly indicate a deep commitment to his current club.
• Football Player Interview: Future interviews might shed more light on his decision-making process during the summer transfer window of 2022.
• Premier League Player: Antony’s preference for Manchester United ultimately shaped the landscape of the Premier League, potentially altering the balance of power.

The Impact on Manchester United and its Rivals

The potential impact of Antony joining Liverpool instead of Manchester United would have been substantial. Liverpool, already a strong attacking side, would have gained a supremely talented winger, adding another dimension to their already formidable offensive capabilities. Their squad would have been significantly strengthened, potentially bolstering their title challenge. Conversely, Manchester United would have lost a key player and faced a significant blow to their attacking prowess. This would have had a ripple effect on the Premier League table, potentially shifting the balance of power and affecting the title race. The reaction from both fan bases would have been extreme, with Manchester United fans likely devastated and Liverpool supporters ecstatic.

• Premier League Impact: Antony's presence at either club would have had a significant influence on the league standings.
• Squad Strengthening: Liverpool would have been stronger with Antony, while Manchester United would have been weaker without him.
• Manchester United Rivals: This near-transfer highlights the intense competition amongst Premier League clubs for top talent.
• Football Transfer Analysis: The situation offers a fascinating case study in the strategic decision-making process in the football transfer market.
• Fan Reaction: Social media would have exploded with reactions from both Manchester United and Liverpool supporters.

Speculation and Future Implications

While the Liverpool near-miss is now firmly in the past, it does raise questions about Antony's long-term future. His success at Manchester United will likely influence future transfer speculation. His age and talent make him a desirable asset, and future transfer windows could see him linked with other top clubs.

Conclusion: Antony's Decision and its Lasting Effect on the Premier League

Antony's near-transfer to Liverpool serves as a compelling reminder of the volatile nature of the Premier League transfer market. The fact that a player of his caliber was so close to joining a direct rival underscores the intensity of the competition for top talent. Ultimately, his decision to join Manchester United significantly shaped the current Premier League landscape. His commitment to the club is undeniable, and his presence has undoubtedly added to the excitement and competitiveness of the league.

What are your thoughts on Antony's near miss? Share your opinions on Antony Manchester United, Premier League transfers, and Football news in the comments below!