Andy Cole Not Convinced Antony is Manchester United Standard
Manchester United legend Andy Cole has expressed his doubts about winger Antony’s ability to reach the standards of the club. The Brazilian joined the Red Devils last August for a fee of £85 million, but Cole believes that the 23-year-old has not yet reached the level of former United players such as Ryan Giggs and David Beckham.
Antony’s First Season at United
Antony enjoyed a successful first season at Old Trafford, winning the club’s goal of the season award for his tie-winning strike against Barcelona in the Europa League. He also scored eight goals in all competitions, but only four of them came in the Premier League, where he managed just two assists.
Cole’s Criticism of Antony
Cole believes that Antony has not yet reached the level of quality expected from a Manchester United winger. He said: “This inverted winger role that Antony plays, as a striker you want your wingers to create chances for you. Antony has had two assists in the Premier League this season, and he’s only scored four goals. I know it’s his first season and Manchester United paid a lot of money for him, but if you’re a winger then you have to be creating more chances. Look at Manchester United’s former players like David Beckham and Ryan Giggs, look at their goals and assists, that’s Manchester United’s standards.”
United’s Summer Transfers
United secured a third place finish and the Carabao Cup in ten Hag’s first season in charge. The Dutchman’s efforts to improve the squad this summer are complicated by the club’s ongoing ownership saga with Mason Mount thought to be the only player a bid has gone in for this far. Chelsea rejected an opening offer of £40million for the midfielder last week with United expected to return with an improved bid.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen whether Antony can reach the standards of Manchester United’s former players and prove Cole wrong. With ten Hag looking to improve the squad this summer, it could be a make or break season for the Brazilian.