The Manchester United player Antony has admitted that, before last night’s FA Cup victory over Everton, he had been dealing with a “shocking” personal issue.
The £82 million summer acquisition from Ajax had an explosive debut at Old Trafford, scoring in each of his first three Premier League outings.
After that, Antony found it difficult to keep up his goal-scoring pace and alternated between Erik ten Hag’s starting lineup before the World Cup break.
Alejandro Garnacho, a fellow South American talent, has made the race for spots even more fierce, but Antony thinks he is prepared for the challenge.
In just four minutes, the predatory winger broke the tie against the struggling Toffees Wednesday night, snapping a 12-game streak without a goal for club or country.
After the game, Antony paid Erik ten Hag a homage and acknowledged his support and faith in helping him get through a trying time in his career.
He said to TNT Sports: “I’m thrilled to score again, especially at home. It’s first and foremost a feeling of joy.” This season, I’ve set some personal goals for myself, and it’s been rewarding to score as soon as I get started. But United’s qualifying is, of course, the most significant.
That didn't take long!! 🙌
Man United cruise into a 1-0 lead through Antony and Lampard's side will have to come back from behind… 😬#ITVFootball pic.twitter.com/ytnU2WrA8g
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) January 6, 2023
I’m also relieved since I’ve experienced a shock in recent days, but I’d rather not talk about it. It was a very difficult personal matter, but I’m grateful to God for helping me put it behind me. I’m also grateful to the team, the players, the manager, and everyone else who stood by my side.
It’s over now, I’m glad to have scored, and I hope to keep doing this because this has been a year of many successes. My current state of mind is one of honoring the supporters and the team with my full attention.
We want to return United to its rightful place because we all recognize the size of this club.
I’m also relieved since I’ve experienced a shock in recent days, but I’d rather not talk about it. It was a very difficult personal matter, but I’m grateful to God for helping me put it behind me. I’m also grateful to the team, the players, the manager, and everyone else who stood by my side.
It’s over now, I’m glad to have scored, and I hope to keep doing this because this has been a year of many successes. My current state of mind is one of honoring the supporters and the team with my full attention.We want to return United to its rightful place because we all recognize the size of this club.
‘Now it’s about focusing on what’s next and we have a quarter-final to play. Everything, not only on the pitch, it also involves resting, eating well, everything. It’s about being 100% on and off the pitch, especially on the mental side as it’s what controls the rest.
I set high standards for myself, regardless of what others may think of me. I take note of the insightful criticism. Any other league cannot compare to the Premier League. There is a high demand given the intensity, calendar, and number of games.
So that’s why I’m concerned about maintaining both my physical and emotional wellness. Regarding the management, I really like him and am grateful to and respectful of him. He is familiar with who I am and how hard I work.
He is aware that I always give my all, even when things don’t go my way. He is aware of my background, my life’s struggles, and my time spent growing up in a slum. It’s crucial to gain his backing, as well as that of the squad and the fans.’