Manchester United winger Antony produced a memorable celebration after scoring his first Premier League goal in more than a year against Burnley in Saturday’s 1-1 draw.
The winger fired home on 79 minutes to put the hosts ahead prior to Zeki Amdouni’s penalty eight minutes later. After finding the net, Antony ran over to a photographer, who gave him a Sonic The Hedgehog stuffed toy.
After giving the cameraman a hug, the Brazilian - who now has three goals this term - held the toy aloft with a ball wrapped between his shirt and stomach. Footballers traditionally do this ball gesture when their partner is expecting a baby.
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Antony’s last Premier League goal had come a year ago in April 2023, when he netted away at Nottingham Forest. His other two goals since then have come in the FA Cup, one of which was against League Two outfit Newport County.
Many United fans feel underwhelmed by Antony’s overall output given his £85m price tag, which made him the second-highest signing in the club’s history. The 24-year-old has enjoyed a gradual uptick in form over the last month but is still seen as a player for whom United paid over the odds.
His future at Old Trafford would become increasingly unsteady should Erik ten Hag be sacked this summer. Aside from Lisandro Martinez, none of the manager’s other recruits since his arrival has been able to sustain a high level of consistency.
United’s attackers - including wingers - have netted a combined 37 goals across all competitions this season. For comparison, Marcus Rashford - on eight goals his term - netted 30 on his own last season. Their top scorer this season is captain Bruno Fernandes who has 15 goals so far.
