"I can't see him turning it around at Manchester United" - Joe Cole feels 24-year-old star has no future at Old Trafford
Former Chelsea star Joe Cole has delivered a damning verdict on Manchester United winger Antony's future. The Englishman reckoned that he doesn't see the Brazilian turning his situation around at Old Trafford as his struggles continue this season.
Manchester United reportedly splashed a whopping £86 million to sign Antony from Ajax in August 2022 (as per Sky Sports). The Brazilian has failed to live up to expectations over the last couple of seasons, giving room to constant criticism and speculation around his future.
The player's situation seems to be getting worse at the moment. He's played just one game in the Premier League this season, seeing just one minute of action after coming off the bench in the 1-2 loss to Brighton.
Discussing the Brazilian's plight at Old Trafford, Joe Cole reckoned that he doubts his chances of turning the corner as he can't cope with the physicality of the Premier League.
“The problem with Antony at Manchester United is I think he’s a player that is perfect for the Dutch league," the Englishman told Paddy Power.
"I think the physicality of the Premier League is something he struggles with. He’s a talented footballer with great technique and skill, and it was good to see him playing well against Barnsley, but I don’t see him making an impact in the United starting team this season and I can’t see him turning it around at Manchester United," he added.
Joe Cole also insinuated a potential split between Antony and Manchester, saying:
"With Antony, I think he’s playing for a move away from the club and I think United will move past him. He’s not an old player and he should be coming into his prime in the next few years, so I think he’s probably best suited to other leagues.”
It is worth noting that there are already rumors of Antony's potential departure from Old Trafford. According to Sky Sports, the attacker is pushing for a loan move ahead of the winter transfer window.
What is next for Manchester United?
After playing out a goalless draw with Crystal Palace in the Premier League at the weekend, Manchester United will be keen to return to winning ways when they clash with FC Twente in the Europa League this Wednesday (September 25).
After that, they'll resume their Premier League campaign over the weekend where they'll go head-to-head with Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on Sunday (September 29). With that, they'll close the month of September and open October with a clash with FC Porto October 3.
As it stands, Erik ten Hag's men have recorded three wins, one draw and two defeats to their name in six games across all competitions so far. They currently occupy the 11th position in the league table with seven points from five games.