Antony's Man Utd Near-Miss: The Rival Club He Almost Joined

Felix Dubois

5 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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The Early Contenders for Antony's Signature

Before Manchester United's pursuit intensified, several clubs showed significant interest in securing the talented Brazilian winger. Ajax, Antony's club at the time, understandably set a high initial asking price, fueling a potential bidding war amongst Europe's elite. This transfer fee was a major factor in the negotiations, with various clubs assessing their budgets and weighing the potential return on investment.

• Early Interest: While precise details remain confidential, reports suggested significant interest from several Premier League and other European clubs. These included teams known for their strong scouting networks and a history of acquiring young, promising talent from South America.
• Initial Asking Price: Ajax valued Antony highly, reflecting his prolific form and the fierce competition for his services. The initial asking price acted as a significant barrier to entry for many interested parties.
• Agent's Role: Antony's agent played a crucial role in managing the numerous offers and navigating the complex negotiations involved in such a high-profile transfer. Their guidance heavily influenced the eventual destination.

Why a Rival Club Was Initially the Frontrunner: Liverpool's Strong Position

Liverpool initially appeared to be the frontrunner to sign Antony. Several factors contributed to their strong position in the race.

• Managerial Interest: Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool's manager, was reportedly very interested in Antony's skillset. His high-pressing, fast-paced style of play aligned perfectly with the demands of Liverpool's system, suggesting a potentially seamless integration into the team.
• Playing Style: Antony’s explosive pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal were seen as ideal for Liverpool's attacking style. His directness and ability to create chances seemed like a perfect fit for the team's dynamic front three.
• League Competition: The appeal of playing in the Premier League, known for its intensity and global visibility, was undoubtedly a significant draw for Antony. Liverpool's consistent presence in the Champions League further enhanced the allure of a move to Anfield.
• Early Negotiations: Liverpool were reported to have engaged in serious negotiations with Ajax, suggesting a strong likelihood of a successful transfer before Manchester United intervened.

The Pivotal Shift: Manchester United's Winning Strategy

The arrival of Erik ten Hag at Manchester United proved to be the pivotal moment in Antony's transfer saga.

• Erik ten Hag's Influence: Ten Hag's pre-existing relationship with Antony from their time together at Ajax played a crucial role. This personal connection provided a significant advantage over other potential suitors.
• Increased Bid: Manchester United's willingness to meet, and even exceed, Ajax's asking price demonstrated their commitment to securing Antony's services, eventually outbidding Liverpool.
• Guaranteed Playing Time: The promise of regular first-team football at Old Trafford was a major factor in Antony's decision. He was assured of a key role within Ten Hag's plans at Manchester United, unlike the potentially more competitive situation at Liverpool.
• Old Trafford's Allure: The prestige of playing at Old Trafford, a historic stadium with a passionate fanbase, undoubtedly held considerable appeal for the talented Brazilian.

The Impact of Agents and Negotiations

The transfer negotiations were intricate and involved multiple parties. The agents involved played a pivotal role in mediating between clubs and the player, influencing the eventual outcome.

• Agent Influence: The agents' expertise in international transfer regulations, contract negotiations, and financial matters significantly shaped the terms of the deal. Their shrewd negotiation skills ensured that their client's best interests were protected.
• International Transfer Regulations: Navigating the complex legal landscape of international football transfers required meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of FIFA regulations.
• Financial Aspects: The financial aspects of the deal, including wages, bonuses, and the overall transfer fee, were crucial factors in the negotiations. These details, alongside the contract length and other contractual elements, had a significant impact on the final outcome.
• Release Clause: The presence, or absence, of a release clause in Antony's contract with Ajax also played a role, determining whether a club could initiate a transfer without direct negotiations with the club.

Conclusion

Antony's transfer to Manchester United was a fascinating case study in the complexities of modern football transfers. While Liverpool initially appeared to be the likely destination due to managerial interest, playing style, and league competitiveness, the pivotal role of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United’s increased bid, and the promise of guaranteed playing time at Old Trafford ultimately swayed the decision. The intricacies of the negotiations, including the agents' influence and the financial aspects, contributed to the eventual outcome. Learn more about the fascinating transfer saga of Antony and other surprising near-misses in the world of football! Dive deeper into the world of player transfers and the intricate negotiations that shape the future of the game. Keep up to date on the latest news regarding Antony's performances at Manchester United and future transfer speculations involving other top players!