Antony: Ajax have signed a gem

Hakim Ziyech would join Chelsea this summer, which would create a vacuum in the Ajax team and thus, the hierarchy did not wait for much to see the potential replacement of the Moroccan winger. They knocked on the doors in Brazil and Sao Paulo responded to the call. Sao Paulo have reached an agreement to sell Antony to Ajax for 20 million euros + 5 million euros in add-ons. He is expected to sign a - year contract with the Dutch club.

The Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte reported Antony deal in this way: Ajax pay 16 million euros – 6 million euros in add-ons. 7 million euros for 20% of Neres reselling. Sao Paulo will receive 20% of any future transfer above 16 million euros.

Even though, this deal did not satisfy former club legends like Marco Van Basten, but as a matter of fact, Antony could be the ideal replacement of Ziyech in the future. The kind of versatility Ajax are looking for, Antony can offer such.

The 19-year old is 5 feet and 9 inches tall and is blessed with speed and dribble. One cannot doubt about his skill and exploiting the spaces at its best. He is able to dominate the flanks and even though he is a versatile forward, his potentiality as a winger cannot be undermined at all. The way he brings the ball down or flicks it on effortlessly into space is a joy to watch, but a nightmare for the defenders.

Antony just loves to baffle the defenders and it is no wonder that he gets fouled 2.8 times per game. When he runs with the ball, it seems that, two engines are placed at those feet, which propels him to tear the opposition defenders into pieces - runs at the defenders with his blistering pace before often cutting in on his left foot. The speed at which he can turn his man and accelerate is breathtaking.

Again, the boy has the ability to make decisions quickly – he possesses a very strong and quick instinct and that is essential at the top level of football.

Antony can score goals. In 2019, which had been his breakthrough year, he had 22.2 shots per match, with 6 assists and 1.3 key passes per game. Most importantly, he has the vision to make intelligent passes to his teammates through on goal and the numerous times he delivers devastating crosses from the flanks should be a blessing for any team he plays.

His right-foot is stronger than the left and prefers to cut inside the left and score with the right foot. He uses the left foot more for passing rather than scoring, and this weakness can be overcome in the course of time.

Antony has the ability to rock the stage, but for that, he would need time and support. One can expect the best of outcomes from this 19-year old and the beneficiary would only be Ajax.

Note: This article has been posted at Cricketsoccer as CSdesk on 16/02/2020 Antony: Ajax have signed a gem 

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Faisal Caesar