Antony has blasted critics on social media for “ruining lives”, also stating that former Manchester United players are not helping matters with their “malicious” and “unreasonable” opinions.
The 24-year-old arrived at Old Trafford for £85m in the summer of 2022, but has struggled to find any kind of consistent form.
The Brazilian winger is yet to contribute a goal or an assist in 15 appearances this season, with just six goal contributions – four goals and two assists – to his name in 35 career Premier League outings.
Antony has been subjected to intense criticism from former players and supporters on social media, though he’s not the only United player to be short of form. Indeed, the Red Devils have already slipped to ten defeats in all competitions, sit seventh in the Premier League table, and are bottom of their Champions League group.
Venting some of his frustration to independent fan channel, The United Stand, Antony said of social media criticism: “The ‘digital court’ is ruining lives – contexts are left aside, and the truth no longer matters.
“I am silently rebuilding myself, and I know that I will be able to be in my best physical and mental shape and overcome all these barriers and challenges that are in front of me because it has always been like this in my life.
“No one has ever given me anything, I have always fought hard for everything I achieved. I would like to know how these people who make these unfair and malicious criticisms [would have] fared in my place.”
Antony also had harsh words for pundits and former United players who have continually belittled his performances – stating their lack of constructive criticism is not helpful and only adds to the overall negativity.
“I see criticism coming from former club players and other people in the media, who unreasonably express their opinions and influence thousands of fans, sometimes even when I do not play. But I’ve never seen them give constructive criticism, which will help me be a better professional.
“None of them have ever sent me a message to see how I am feeling, especially during this period of turbulence that I am going through.”
In terms of United’s performances this season, Antony attempted to deflect the blame away from Erik ten Hag, who is under increasing pressure, by saying: “The season is not as good as we wanted. But we lost a lot of injured players. Fundamental pieces for Ten Hag’s chess.
“With the the return of part of the quad, we will improve, and results will improve.”
