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Manchester United are all set to start yet another new era with a deal for Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim inching closer following Erik ten Hag’s sacking on Monday.
INEOS had dilly-dallied for a long time over the decision but Sunday’s disappointing defeat to West Ham proved to be the straw that broke the camel’s back and the new co-owners were left with no choice but to end the Dutchman’s tenure with the club languishing in 14th place in the Premier League.
While two trophies were won during the former Ajax coach’s tenure, the two-and-a-half years were characterised by player tussles, puzzling selection calls and the lack of a clear identity.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new-look team had spent big in the summer to help Ten Hag but his reluctance to use Manuel Ugarte in midfield alongside Kobbie Mainoo did not impress the hierarchy.
EtH out, Amorim in
With Amorim expected to take charge, young players are expected to earn more minutes while plenty of underperforming stars will be playing to save their United careers.
One among them is Antony with the big-money signing failing his former mentor since his arrival at Old Trafford. The Brazilian is currently injured.
As per Talksport, United have decided to cut loose the former Ajax winger as early as January with Ajax, Flamengo among the teams interested.
United are expected to take a huge hit on their initial £86 million outlay with Ten Hag’s favouritism regarding the Brazil international causing issues within the dressing room, something INEOS are keen to fix.
“talkSPORT understands Antony has already been told he can leave Old Trafford when the transfer window reopens in January after failing to justify becoming the second-most expensive player in United’s history.
“This notebook can also reveal Ten Hag’s loyalty to the under-performing 24-year-old over their players was a bone of contention inside the United dressing room.”
Antony out, Chelsea keen
Interestingly, Spanish outlet Fichajes have claimed that Chelsea, who took Jadon Sancho on loan in the summer, could be ready to rid United of another of their problem stars.
The Blues feel Antony can add dynamism to their final third with Mykhailo Mudryk among the players who look to be on their way out of the club.
“Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, have set their sights on a Manchester United reject, Antony, with the Brazilian winger of the Red Devils reportedly on the way out.
“At Stamford Bridge, the directors see Antony as a signing who could give them greater dynamism in the final third of the pitch, one of the areas in which the team has shown deficiencies.”
The 24-year-old’s current market value stands at €20 million as per Transfermarkt with his United deal valid until 2027.
Feature image Paul Ellis via Getty Images