Manchester United’s 2023–24 season can only be characterised as lacklustre, given there is just the FA Cup left to be won.

Although there are several explanations for the lack of development this season, Erik ten Hag’s strategy and playing style are starting to come under fire.

Erik Ten Hag Man United Teams Premier League
Although the boss hasn’t been able to field his best starting lineup due in large part to injuries, those who have been given the opportunity, with the exception of a few, haven’t performed well.

In light of this, one player in particular has had the most difficulty getting going this season; his output and statistics speak for themselves.

What Man United paid for Antony in reality

Like Ten Hag, Antony left Ajax to join Man United in the summer, but the Brazilian’s first 18 months in England haven’t exactly been smooth.

The issue at hand was as straightforward as it got, with a gigantic £82 million price tag hanging over his head: perform exceptionally well or face unending criticism.

Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, speaks with Antony
The winger’s first three Premier League starts and his debut goal against Arsenal have made for an incredible start to his life at Old Trafford.

But a few weeks later, analyst Robbie Savage referred to 24-year-old Antony as “embarrassing” when he earned a lot of criticism for his signature spin in the Europa League.

In less than a year, Antony’s value has drastically decreased due to his increasingly erratic performances as the campaign went on. That’s not ideal for a man earning over £10 million a year and up to £200k in salaries annually.

The 2024 transfer value of Antony

After a difficult debut season, Antony was expected to fully establish himself as United’s right winger this year, especially following his standout performance with a goal and an assist in the 3-1 preseason victory over RC Lens.

That hasn’t really been the case, though, as the number 21 has struggled to contribute in any way to the offence and has made just 21 Premier League games without scoring a goal.

Manchester United’s Antony Forson Pilistri
Alejandro Garnacho has taken his spot in the team as a result of his two FA Cup matches this season, which were against League Two rival Newport County.

According to Transfermarkt, Antony’s projected net worth has dropped by £52 million due to his lack of skill and his loss of playing time. The chart below compares Antony’s value to other first-choice right-wingers in England. It’s undoubtedly unsettling to watch.

Antony’s worth in comparison to the Big Six Right Wingers

Participant

Worth

Saka Bukayo

£102 million

Phil Foden

£94 million

Mohammed Aliah

£55 million

Kulusevski Dejan

£47 million

Palmer Cole

£38 million

Anthony

£30 million

Through Transfermarkt

Many United supporters are urging for Antony to be traded in the summer despite the fact that he is significantly less valued, but Ten Hag has stood behind the attacker, saying:

“He has a lot of promise. Although he hasn’t demonstrated it recently, I am aware of his skill. It’s about showcasing his abilities. It has to do with him.

opinion of Johan-Bakayoko-Bukayo-Saka-Tottenham
In actuality, Antony’s future at Manchester United is entirely uncertain, as is the situation with many other players as a result of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival. However, one thing is for sure: the Brazilian was greatly compensated by the Red Devils.