Manchester United

Antony enjoying learning from "best in the world" Cristiano Ronaldo

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 10 September 2022

Manchester United attacker Antony brands Cristiano Ronaldo "the best in the world", as he opened up on his relationship with the Portuguese.

Manchester United attacker Antony has branded Cristiano Ronaldo "the best in the world" and claimed that he has already "learnt a lot" from his teammate "in just a few days".

Antony officially completed a move to Old Trafford on transfer deadline day, with the 20-time English champions agreeing to pay Ajax £85.5m for the attacker's services.

The 22-year-old netted on his Red Devils debut against Arsenal in the Premier League last weekend, playing 58 minutes of his side's 3-1 victory over the Gunners.

However, the Brazil international suffered defeat on his European debut for the club on Thursday evening, with Erik ten Hag's side going down 1-0 at home to Real Sociedad.

Ronaldo made just his second start of the season against the La Liga outfit, but it proved to be a frustrating night for the 37-year-old, who is yet to find the back of the net this term.

Cristiano Ronaldo in action for Manchester United on September 8, 2022 © Reuters

Antony has lavished praise on his new teammate, claiming that he has "an extraordinary mind".

"I've come to help my teammates. Regardless of age, there's immense talent in all the players," Antony told Man United's official media.

"Words can't describe Cristiano, the best in the world. In just a few days, I've learnt a lot from him. He has an extraordinary mind and, whenever I talk to him, I take a lot from it. I'm sure that we have a strong attack and it's very promising for the future."

Antony was also asked about his skills and tricks, which have become a key part of his game, with the South American revealing that he will always look to provide entertainment for the fans.

"I've always done this. Not just here but for all the teams I've played for. I've been doing it ever since I was a child. I've always done it - it's one of my characteristics," the former Sao Paulo youngster added.

Manchester United's Antony in action with Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo on September 8, 2022 © Reuters

"I am adapting and getting used to things here already. Entertaining is something I've always liked and I'll continue doing it."

Following his debut goal against Arsenal last weekend, Ten Hag called Antony "the missing link".

"We can make speed and creativity together, he will be a threat in the Premier League. We were missing a player on the right wing, [Jadon] Sancho and [Marcus] Rashford can play there but they prefer the left so now we have the missing link who can play well on the right," Ten Hag told Sky Sports News.

"He did well but I think he can do better, he had a great goal but all the goals were team goals."

Man United will next be in action against Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League on Thursday evening, with their Premier League clash against Crystal Palace, which was scheduled for Sunday afternoon, cancelled following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.