By Andreas Kavgas & Pandelis Dimakopoulos

Antony Matheus dos Santos, known simply as Antony, is a Brazilian professional footballer who has garnered attention for his dazzling dribbling, quick feet, and flair on the pitch. Born on February 24, 2000, in Limeira, a city in São Paulo, Brazil, Antony has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the most promising wingers of his generation. His explosive pace, creativity, and technical skills have made him a standout player in both club football and international competitions.

Early Life and Youth Development

Antony’s journey into football began at a young age. Raised in a football-loving family, he developed a passion for the sport as a child. He started playing at the local club in Limeira before joining the youth ranks of São Paulo FC, one of Brazil’s most prestigious football clubs. At São Paulo, Antony honed his skills and quickly made a name for himself due to his natural talent and exceptional dribbling abilities.

His time in São Paulo’s youth system was formative, as he began to showcase the flair and creativity that would define his playing style. By 2018, Antony made his professional debut for São Paulo’s senior team at just 18 years old, a testament to his early maturity as a footballer. In his first season, he impressed fans and critics alike with his performances in the Brazilian Serie A, displaying technical ability, pace, and an eye for goal.

Move to Europe: Ajax and Global Recognition

In 2020, Antony’s rise to prominence caught the attention of European giants, and he made a significant move to Ajax Amsterdam in the Netherlands. Joining Ajax’s attacking setup, Antony adapted seamlessly to European football and quickly became a key player for the club. His dribbling, speed, and versatility were well-suited to Ajax’s high-pressing, attacking style of play.

During his time in the Eredivisie, Antony became a fan favorite. In his first season, he contributed with both goals and assists in domestic and international competitions. Ajax’s run in the UEFA Champions League saw Antony play a pivotal role, impressing against top-tier European teams with his ability to create chances and score. His performances did not go unnoticed, and it was clear that the young Brazilian was ready for the next step in his career.

Premier League Move: Manchester United

In the summer of 2022, Antony made the high-profile switch to Manchester United, one of the most iconic football clubs in the world. The transfer, reported to be in the region of €95 million, was a statement of intent from the English club. Antony reunited with former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag, who had been instrumental in his development at the Dutch club.

At Manchester United, Antony quickly adapted to the Premier League’s intensity, although his early performances were a mixed bag, with flashes of brilliance interspersed with moments of inconsistency. However, his raw talent was undeniable, and his ability to play on both wings added an element of unpredictability to United’s attack. His dribbling skills, combined with a knack for scoring goals, made him one of the most exciting young talents in the Premier League.

International Career with Brazil

On the international stage, Antony’s potential was recognized by Brazil’s national team. He made his debut for the senior team in 2019 and has since become a regular feature for Brazil, participating in major international tournaments, including the Copa América and World Cup qualifiers. Known for his flair and confidence, Antony’s performances for Brazil have been marked by his creativity, pace, and ability to unlock defenses with his vision and dribbling skills.

Playing Style

Antony is primarily a right-winger but is versatile enough to play on the left or even as an attacking midfielder. He is known for his flair, directness, and agility. His ability to take on defenders one-on-one is one of his standout traits, and he has developed a reputation for creating opportunities out of seemingly impossible situations. Although he is not the tallest player, his quickness, balance, and skill make him a constant threat in attack.

Future Prospects

As of 2025, Antony is still in the early stages of his career, but his potential is immense. His technical ability, combined with his hunger and work ethic, suggest that he has the potential to become one of the best wingers in the world. With continued development and experience, Antony is poised to achieve great things both at the club and international level, and fans can expect to see more of his dazzling performances on the global stage in the years to come.