Aheed Abrar
Antony dedicates his ’emotional’ debut goal against Arsenal to his family and Manchester United fans
Manchester United forward Antony has dedicated his debut goal against Arsenal to his family and the fans. The Brazilian started the game and opened the scoring against the Gunners in the 35th minute.
Antony made his way to Old Trafford in the final days of the recent transfer window. The 22-year-old reunited with former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag. He was immediately handed his United debut just a few days after signing.
Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t Manchester Evening News), Antony revealed what was going through his head as he saw the ball hit the back of the net. The Brazilian was overwhelmed by the reaction of the Old Trafford crowd.
“When I saw the net bulge and the fans on their feet cheering, it was very emotional.
“I had goosebumps. That goal was for my family and the fans.”
United hosted top-of-the-table Arsenal, who had a perfect record at the time in the 2022/23 season. The Red Devils were themselves on a good run, having won three games on the trot.
Ten Hag had stuck with the same starting lineup in the previous three fixtures. However, Antony was given the nod ahead of Anthony Elanga against the Gunners.
It was an even game with both sides going at each other. However, United were able to break the deadlock as Marcus Rashford slipped the new signing from Ajax in behind the Arsenal defence, who curled his shot past Aaron Ramsdale.
Antony was substituted in the 58th minute for Ronaldo. The Gunners were able to pull one back as Bukayo Saka managed to beat David de Gea in the 60th minute.
However, two quickfire counter-attacking goals in the 66th and 75th minute from Marcus Rashford saw United take the three points with a 3-1 victory. We became the first side this season to beat Arsenal.
More Manchester United News
- Manuel Akanji admits he was a Manchester United fan growing up
- Tim Vickery gives verdict on Manchester United midfielder Casemiro amidst criticism from Graeme Souness
- Barcelona willing to part ways with Manchester United target Frenkie de Jong in the January transfer window
Antony also started against Real Sociedad in the Europa League. However, the 22-year-old was a bit quiet in the game. The Brazilian has dazzled fans with a bit of trickery in his initial games. Hopefully, he is able to find his feet fast in Manchester.
