Antony fires response after criticism over “embarrassing” Man United celebrations vs Coventry

Manchester United winger Antony has fired a response after he received criticism over his “embarrassing” celebrations against Coventry City on the weekend.

Antony, 23, was introduced as a second-half substitute for Alejandro Garnacho once United were three goals to the good.

Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes all scored at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final, making the team’s progression to the final seemingly straightforward.

However, Coventry scored three quickfire goals late in the second half to force the game to go into extra-time and eventually penalties. After scoring his second penalty of the day, Haji Wright cupped his ear to the United supporters.

In extra time, the Championship outfit were inches away from winning the game and completing one of the largest upsets in FA Cup history.

However, an important intervention from VAR disallowed their 121st-minute goal after it was judged to be offside. It was an extremely tight call.

Fortunately, Erik ten Hag’s side were able to win the penalty shootout, which saw André Onana succeed in his mind games with the Coventry players.

After Rasmus Højlund’s winning spot kick, some of the United players were calmer in their celebrations. Harry Maguire immediately turned to congratulate the Coventry players on their efforts.

Antony, however, ran in front of the opposition players stood on the halfway line and cupped his ears with his hands.

It was a celebration that has caused a monumental backlash among fans and ex-players. The Brazilian’s actions were labelled as “unprofessional” and”embarrassing”.

However, the United winger has now fired back a response and explained that he was naturally defending his club after Wright’s celebrations in front of the United fans.

Writing on social media platform X, formally known as Twitter, Antony said: “Coventry proved why they reached the semi-final. We seeked this spot in the final for our fans and we achieved.

“The way our fans were treated by their player was not nice and I, in the heat of the moment, i’ve reacted to the provocations in a natural defense of my club!”