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Gabriel Abgonlahor compares Manchester United star Antony to Arsenal flop Nicolas Pepe after Crystal Palace draw
Former Aston Villa ace Gabriel Abgonlahor has compared Manchester United star Antony to Arsenal flop Nicolas Pepe after the Brazilian’s display against Crystal Palace.
The 22-year-old started for the Red Devils at Selhurst Park on Wednesday (18 January). However, the winger was a bit underwhelming and was substituted at the 70th-minute mark as the game ended in a 1-1 draw.
Speaking after the match on talkSPORT (h/t Metro), Agbonlahor, who spent most of his professional career with the Villans, feels Antony is not potent enough in the attack.
“Watching Antony last night, he doesn’t do enough for me. He wasn’t happy when he got dragged. He’s giving me Pepe who used to be at Arsenal vibes.
“He does tricks, doesn’t really beat a player. They need Garnacho to start against Arsenal, they need Jadon Sancho to get back amongst it they need more options on the wing because Antony’s not at it at the moment.”
The Brazilian signed for United in the previous transfer window from Ajax. He went off to a quick start in the league. The 22-year-old scored in each of his first three English top-flight matches.
However, since then, Antony’s performances have deteriorated. The 22-year-old is not having the desired effect in the right wing, where Erik ten Hag has preferred him.
Pepe was brought to England by Arsenal in the summer of 2019. The Ivory Coast international had mesmerised in his debut campaign at LOSC Lille, which prompted the Gunners to pay big money for the forward.
However, after three underwhelming years in the PL, the North London side opted to send the 27-year-old back to France. He is currently on loan at OGC Nice.
Alejandro Garnacho replaced Antony against Palace. The 18-year-old looked lively and energetic in the match. In recent fixtures, the Argentine youngster has come on as a substitute to good effect.
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It is still early days for the Brazilian in Manchester. His price tag should not take away from the fact that the 22-year-old has immense potential. Ten hag knows the forward very well. Hopefully, the gaffer can bring the best out of him soon.
