Why Is Antony Trolled So Much on Social Media? Man United Fans’ Frustration with the Brazilian Winger Explained

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Antony Matheus dos Santos arrived at Manchester United in the summer of 2022 as a marquee signing from Ajax, reuniting with Erik ten Hag. The hefty £85 million price tag came with expectations of dazzling performances, creativity, and goals.

However, the Brazilian winger has been a lightning rod for criticism, becoming one of the most trolled footballers in United's recent history.

The reasons behind Antony's relentless trolling by fans stem from a combination of poor performances, controversial behaviour, and an apparent lack of self-awareness.

Lacklustre Performances for Man United

Statistically, Antony's output falls woefully short of what is expected from a high-profile attacker. His tally of just four league goals in the entirety of the 2022-23 season and a mere five goal contributions across all competitions in the previous campaign highlights his lack of impact.

This season has been even more dire for the former Ajax winger, with just 11 appearances in all competitions, and his solitary goal coming in the EFL Cup against Charlton Athletic. Antony's gameplay is often predictable, with repeated attempts to cut inside on his stronger left foot, frustrating fans who yearn for variety and effectiveness.

In a side already grappling with inconsistency, Antony's ineffectiveness stands out. The team often appears worse with him on the pitch, leading fans to brand him a liability rather than an asset. His recent involvement in conceding a penalty against Chelsea further fuelled the narrative of him being a poor investment.

Antony’s Controversial Antics

Antony’s behaviour on the pitch has drawn significant ire. Whether it’s his unnecessary showboating, such as the infamous "spin" move against Sheriff Tiraspol, or his post-match antics after United’s FA Cup semi-final against Coventry, Antony often comes across as out of touch with the gravity of his situation.

Celebrating flamboyantly after United barely survived Coventry – a Championship side – was perceived as both tone-deaf and emblematic of misplaced priorities.

“Dribbling was always something inside me. It was a natural instinct. And I refused to bow my head to anyone,” Antony said after being trolled heavily for needless showboating. “I would elastico the drug dealers. Rainbow the bus drivers. Nutmeg the thieves. I really did not give a f***. With a ball at my feet, I had no fear.”

His decision-making in crucial moments, coupled with unnecessary risks, has done little to endear him to fans. For example, while his outside-of-the-foot assist against Chelsea was technically remarkable, it epitomised his tendency to overcomplicate the simple. Such actions often result in wasted opportunities, compounding United’s struggles in the attacking third.

Antony’s life off the pitch has also added to his polarising image. Allegations of domestic violence earlier this season cast a shadow over his professional career. While United allowed him to return after the investigation, the episode tarnished his reputation. Statements about "working silently to evolve" came across as hollow given his ongoing struggles on the pitch.

A Symbol of Mismanagement

Fans often view Antony as a symbol of the club's wider mismanagement. The exorbitant fee paid for him, his lack of tangible returns, and the former manager’s continued faith despite poor form are seen as indicative of United's flawed recruitment and strategy. When the team falters, Antony becomes an easy scapegoat for supporters venting their frustration.

Antony’s Brazilian flair, often celebrated in his homeland, has not translated well in the Premier League. While players like Neymar and Ronaldinho balanced skill with substance, Antony’s style appears more form than function. His declarations of "art" and "boldness" resonate poorly with fans demanding consistent output over flair.