Fred backs Manchester United forward Antony after backlash for ‘showboating’ against Sheriff Tiraspol
Manchester United midfielder Fred has come to the defence of compatriot and teammates Antony after backlash for ‘showboating’ against Sheriff Tiraspol. The 29-year-old feels that such skills are a part of a Brazilian’s game.
The 22-year-old produced something called “the Anturny”, a 720 spin, against Sheriff in the Europa League in the 38th minute of the game. United legend Paul Scholes speaking on BT Sport (h/t Manchester Evening News) had slammed the Brazilian for his manoeuvre.
“I don’t know what he is doing, it is just ridiculous. He is not beating a man, he is not entertaining anybody, then he kicks the ball out. But that is the way he plays but I think he needs that knocking out of him.”
However, Fred has backed his compatriot, speaking via MEN. The midfielder is annoyed by the criticism. He wants people to know that such moves come naturally to players like Antony and is part of who they are.
“It’s very annoying that they want to say that. I think it starts with us being Brazilians. Brazilians have quality in their blood.
“It’s always been that way since Pele, to have quality, to dribble, to score, to dance, to smile. So I think people have to understand this aspect that we have. So it wasn’t offensive to anyone what he did.
The 22-year-old made his way to Old Trafford in the recent transfer window from Ajax. He reunited with Erik ten Hag in Manchester and has been a constant in the starting lineup since his arrival.
Antony has had a dream start to his United career. The Brazilian scored on his debut against Arsenal in the Red Devils’ 3-0 win over the table-toppers in the Premier League. He subsequently found the back of the net in his first three English top-flight games.
The 22-year-old has been lively whenever he has played for us. Playing out on the right wing, the forward has made life difficult for opposition defences.
Ten Hag has one of the best players at his disposal in Cristiano Ronaldo. And during the Portugal international’s initial days, he was known for his trickery.
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Thus, such tricks should be embraced instead of inhibiting Antony from playing the way he wants. His spin did not hurt anyone. The likes of Ronaldinho are remembered to this day by fans in part because of the magic they produced on the pitch with the ball.
