Brazilian right winger known for skillful dribbling and pace, who became one of the most expensive transfers in Premier League history at €100m
Antony Matheus dos Santos was born in Osasco, Brazil in 2000. Ajax developed him after São Paulo's academy and he won two Eredivisie titles. Manchester United paid £85.5 million for him in 2022 — a fee that was almost immediately considered excessive. His Premier League career produced 12 goals in two seasons — far below the productivity required to justify the transfer. He was placed on compassionate leave in 2023 following allegations of assault by a former partner — allegations he denied — that generated significant media attention. He returned to training and then to the team. He represented Brazil 22 times. His technical skill — close dribbling and the ability to beat defenders on the right wing — was evident in Ajax's system but the Premier League's physical intensity and speed presented challenges that his fee amplified beyond proportion. He remains one of the most discussed examples of a player whose transfer fee created expectations impossible to manage in a deteriorating team environment.
Record-breaking transfer to Manchester United
How They Played
Pacey left-footed winger with excellent dribbling skills and crossing ability
Career Honours
- Eredivisie 2x
- DFB-Pokal (2022)
- Copa América squad
- Eredivisie 2021
- Eredivisie 2022
| Club | Period | Fee | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| São Paulo | 2018–2020 | — | 48 | 6 |
| Ajax | 2020–2022 | — | 57 | 18 |
| Manchester United | 2022–2025 | €100m (£85.5m) | 62 | 5 |
| Betis | 2025–2025 | loan | 17 | 5 |
| Betis | 2025–Present | — | 32 | 8 |
| — | — | 22 | 3 |