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Antony hits out at social media critics for ‘ruining lives’
Antony has slammed social media critics for “ruining lives,” adding that former Manchester United players aren’t helping matters with their “malicious” and “unreasonable” views.
The 24-year-old joined Manchester United for £85 million in the summer of 2022, but has struggled to establish consistent form.
The Brazilian winger has yet to score or assist in 15 Premier League games this season and has only made six goal contributions—four goals and two assists—in 35 career Premier League appearances.
Antony has received harsh criticism on social media from past players and supporters, but he is not the only United player who is out of form. Indeed, United have now suffered 10 defeats in all competitions, are seventh in the Premier League table, and are at the bottom of their Champions League group.
Venting some of his frustration to independent fan channel The United Stand, Antony said of social media criticism: “The ‘digital court’ is ruining lives – contexts are left aside, and the truth no longer matters.
“I am silently rebuilding myself, and I know that I will be able to be in my best physical and mental shape and overcome all these barriers and challenges that are in front of me because it has always been like this in my life.
“No one has ever given me anything, I have always fought hard for everything I achieved. I would like to know how these people who make these unfair and malicious criticisms [would have] fared in my place.”
Antony also had harsh words for pundits and former United players who have continually belittled his performances, stating that their lack of constructive criticism is not helpful and only adds to the overall negativity.
“I see criticism coming from former club players and other people in the media who unreasonably express their opinions and influence thousands of fans, sometimes even when I do not play. But I’ve never seen them give constructive criticism, which will help me be a better professional.
“None of them have ever sent me a message to see how I am feeling, especially during this period of turbulence that I am going through.”
In terms of United’s performances this season, Antony attempted to deflect the blame away from Erik ten Hag, who is under increasing pressure, by saying: “The season is not as good as we wanted. But we lost a lot of injured players. Fundamental pieces for Ten Hag’s chess.
“With the the return of part of the quad, we will improve, and results will improve.”