Manchester United announced the signing of Brazil winger Antony earlier today, the club’s fifth signing of the summer.
Antony, 22, is hoping to make his debut for United against Arsenal on Sunday, and will be watching and cheering the team on against Leicester City tonight.
One player he is especially keen to see is his former teammate Lisandro Martinez.
Speaking to the club website, Antony explained he identifies with Martinez’s approach and enjoys watching him.
Antony says he loves watching Lisandro Martinez play
Speaking to United’s club website, Antony said: “Martinez has his Argentinian style, we know it well. I love it and it motivates me to see him play.
“The way he competes, the way he plays he gives his heart and soul on the pitch.
“I have the same personality he knows me well and knows what I’m like. I put my body on the line – blood, sweat and tears.
“If I need to leave the pitch really hurting no problem, it’s my life, it’s my job. Watching Martinez, I know him well, up close. He’s a great player we can all see, people recognise this, Martinez is a craque.”
Manchester United fans have also fallen in love with Martinez’s approach, with the defender establishing himself as a regular starter.
Martinez’s presence will help Antony to settle quickly at United, along with manager Erik ten Hag and his assistant Mitchell van der Gaag.
Antony added: “I’m really grateful and Erik has all my respect and affection and it will be a privilege and an honour to be working with him again.”
- ANTONY: Factfile
- Antony was signed by Erik ten Hag for Ajax from Sao Paulo in 2020.
- He starred in Brazil’s Olympic gold medal winning team in Tokyo.
- The winger is senior international for Brazil and has been dubbed the ‘new Neymar’.
- Antony has won consecutive league titles for Ajax, scoring 24 goals for the club.
- He wears Ajax’s number 11 shirt, a number he also wore for Sao Paulo and Brazil.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
