Antony hits back at critics after Paul Scholes with his five words message after He labelled Man Utd star “a clown”

After being chastised for showboating on Thursday evening, Antony vows he “won’t stop doing what got me here.”

The 22-year-old Brazilian international did an impressive 720-degree spin during Manchester United’s 3-0 victory over Sheriff at Old Trafford. However, he followed it up with a wayward pass, leaving United manager Erik ten Hag dissatisfied with his £85 million signing.

Following the trick, Antony has been accused of prioritizing style over substance, with some analysts taking aim at the winger. One such pundit is former Manchester United footballer Paul Scholes, who suggested Antony was “acting like a clown” and needs to modify his ways.

However, Antony seems unconcerned with what others think. “We are well-known for our art,” Antony posted on Instagram on Friday. “And I’m not going to quit doing what got me here!”

Ten Hag signed Antony in September following two seasons with the Brazilian at Ajax. In Amsterdam, the pair won three trophies together, including two Eredivisie crowns, with the player progressing to senior international status under the manager’s tutelage.

When Antony arrived at Old Trafford, his price tag raised eyebrows, but he’s already shown himself in the Premier League, scoring three goals in six outings. During his time in England, the child demonstrated a high level of skill, aggression, and enthusiasm.

Ten Hag replaced Antony against Sheriff at halftime and said he wasn’t pleased with his showboating, though he insisted the change wasn’t due to his trick. “I don’t like tricks as long as they’re functional,” Ten Hag stated.

“I expect more from him: more runs behind, more time in the box, and more pocket play.” It’s wonderful to have a trick like that as long as it’s functional. It’s fine if you’re not losing the ball, but if it’s a trick because of a trick, I’ll correct him.”

Scholes, on the other hand, believes Antony was arrested for showboating. “I believe that had something to do with it,” the ex-midfielder told BT Sport. “You could see his expression on the bench. I believe it irritated him. I’m just not sure what it does.

“I enjoy a little showboating and entertainment, but at the very least get the pass correctly.” This country, any country, even Brazil. Do they really want to witness that? I enjoy seeing talents and entertainment, but I don’t think it’s skill or entertainment; it’s simply clowning around.”

“He’s not beating a man, he’s not entertaining anybody, it’s 0-0, then he kicks the ball out,” Scholes added. That’s how he plays; I’ve seen him do it many times at Ajax, and it’s just the way he is, but I think he has to be knocked out.”

“It’s rather embarrassing frankly,” Robbie Savage said on commentary. He’s doing it with no one around him, and then he takes the ball out of play… Embarrassing. What was the purpose? If I were the boss and he did that again, I’d drag him out.”