Revealed: Antony's Almost Transfer To A Manchester United Rival

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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The Initial Interest from Manchester City

Manchester City's interest in Antony emerged early in the summer transfer window. Pep Guardiola, renowned for his tactical acumen and eye for young talent, saw Antony as a potential addition to his already formidable squad. City's extensive scouting network had been closely monitoring Antony's progress at Ajax.

• Rumors suggested City had initiated preliminary talks with Ajax regarding a potential Antony Manchester City transfer.
• Internal discussions within City regarding a suitable transfer fee likely took place, considering Antony's impressive performances and market value.
• Pep Guardiola's tactical preferences and Antony's dynamic playing style were carefully evaluated for compatibility within City's existing system. The potential for Antony to seamlessly integrate into City's attacking strategy was a key consideration.

Why the Manchester City Transfer Fell Through

Despite early interest, the move to the Etihad Stadium never materialized. Several factors contributed to this transfer breakdown:

• Ajax's High Asking Price: Ajax's valuation of Antony proved a significant stumbling block for Manchester City. Their demanding asking price, reflective of Antony's talent and potential, exceeded City's initial willingness to spend. This difference in valuation became a major obstacle in the negotiations.
• City's Cautious Transfer Strategy: Manchester City's reputation for a calculated and fiscally responsible transfer strategy likely played a role. They prefer making strategic, well-considered moves, rather than impulsive high-spending acquisitions. The Antony transfer may have not aligned perfectly with their overall summer transfer plan.
• Competition from Manchester United: The emergence of Manchester United as serious contenders significantly impacted the Antony transfer saga. Their strong interest, fueled by the presence of Erik ten Hag, significantly altered the dynamics of the negotiations.
• Internal Considerations at Manchester City: Manchester City may have also considered other internal factors, such as squad balance and the availability of other potential targets. Their decision-making process extends beyond a single player and incorporates their broader strategic needs.

The Role of Manchester United's Intervention

Manchester United, under the guidance of Erik ten Hag (who previously managed Antony at Ajax), entered the race for the player's signature. This intervention proved decisive, ultimately leading to a successful bid and a completed transfer.

• Ten Hag's Influence: Erik ten Hag's personal relationship with Antony played a crucial role in convincing the player to choose Old Trafford over other options. The familiarity and trust between manager and player were undeniable advantages for Manchester United.
• Meeting Ajax's Demands: Manchester United's willingness to meet Ajax's financial demands proved crucial in securing the deal. Their competitive bid addressed the major obstacle that prevented a Manchester City transfer.
• Familiar Manager: The prospect of playing under a familiar manager, someone who understood his strengths and tactical preferences, was a significant attraction for Antony. This factor likely swayed his decision in Manchester United's favor.

The Impact on Both Clubs

Antony's near-transfer to Manchester City had significant implications for both clubs. For Manchester City, missing out on a player of Antony's caliber represented a missed opportunity to further bolster their already impressive attacking options. For Manchester United, securing Antony represented a key addition to strengthen their squad and fulfill Erik ten Hag's tactical vision.

• Manchester City's Adaptation: Manchester City adapted their transfer strategy, shifting their focus to other targets in line with their broader plans.
• Manchester United's Strengthening: Manchester United significantly bolstered their attacking options, adding a player with proven ability and a familiar connection to the manager. This transfer positively impacted the squad dynamics and enhanced their attacking capabilities.

Conclusion

Antony's almost transfer to Manchester City highlights the unpredictable and often surprising nature of the football transfer market. While a move to the Etihad seemed plausible at one point, several intertwining factors—including Ajax's asking price, Manchester United's decisive intervention, and ultimately, the player's personal preference—led to the Brazilian winger signing with the Red Devils. The near-miss provides a fascinating case study in the complexities of high-stakes football negotiations. Understanding the Antony transfer saga and the near-miss offers valuable insight into the intricate dynamics that shape player movements in the modern game. Stay tuned for more updates on the world of football transfers and further analyses of high-profile player movements like the Antony transfer.