Europa League – Antony’s top (Manchester United) makes Paul Scholes jump and annoys Erik ten Hag

It is his signature gesture, the one that allowed him to attract the lights and increase his value, as well as his number of followers. Brilliant at Ajax, Antony was used to atypical ball controls. But the best known of them remains the spinning top: on a service on the ground, the Brazilian controls with the inside of the foot before turning on itself.

Discreet since his arrival on the arabesques, he tried Thursday, in the Europa League, against Sheriff Tiraspol (3-0). On a serve from Casemiro, when he was wide on the right, Antony provoked an enthusiastic reaction from Old Trafford before missing his pass in the direction of the opposing area. A gesture that has been widely commented on across the Channel.

On the set of BT Sport, Paul Scholes demolished the Brazilian. “It’s just ridiculous, it’s a showhe blurted out. Look at Erik ten Hag’s reaction, that sums it all up. It doesn’t amuse anyone. It’s 0-0 and in addition he loses the ball behind“. “It’s embarassing“, added Robbie Savage, also a consultant.

On his bench, Ten Hag did not move at the sight of the gesture but shook his head in annoyance. The result ? A half-time substitution for the Brazilian. Asked at a press conference about this choice, he harshly judged his right winger. “I demand more from himhe explained. More runs in the back, more presence in the box, more play in the last meters“.

All before embarking on the appreciation of this spinning top: “When there is a technical gesture like that, it’s good as long as it’s useful. If you don’t lose the ball, then it’s OK. But if it’s a technical move to make a technical move, then I’ll correct it“. Antony knows what to expect.