‘I’ll never change’ – Manchester United star hits back at criticism
Manchester United winger Antony is adamant that he will not change his style of play despite being called a “clown” for showboating against Sheriff.
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes labelled Antony a clown after he performed his trademark spin in United’s 3-0 Europa League win against Sheriff last month.
Antony said in The Players’ Tribune: “With a ball at your feet, you should only feel joy. I was born a dribbler. It is part of my roots. It is the gift that took me from the slums to the Theatre of Dreams.
“I will never change the way I play, because it is not a style, it is me. It is a part of me. A part of our story as Brazilians. If you just watch one 10 second clip of me, then you will not understand. Nothing I do is a joke. Everything has a purpose. To go forward with boldness, to strike fear into the opponent, to create space, to make a difference for my team.”
He added on the players he took inspiration from in his youth: “If you think I’m just a clown, then you don’t understand my story.
“The art of Ronaldinho and Cristiano and Neymar inspired me as a child. I watched these Gods in amazement on stolen Wifi, then I went out to the concrete pitch to try to imitate their genius.”