What is Antony’s spin and why does he do it? Manchester United star defends ‘art’ as Neymar sticks up for winger’s trademark skill

Antony is starting to come into his own for Manchester United this season, becoming a regular in Erik ten Hag’s line-up. 

The Brazilian is an extravagant player and is always looking to showcase his box of tricks with a spin now his signature move. 

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However, his trademark skill has split the opinions of fans and pundits since arriving in the Premier League and he has come under a fair bit of criticism. 

So what exactly does he do and why does he do it? talkSPORT.com takes a look…

What is Antony’s spin? 

The Brazilian collects the ball at his feet and with space from the defender, he controls it with his left boot.

He then keeps the ball stuck to his foot and rotates 720 degrees in a circle on the spot.

Not known, clear with picture desk

BT Sport

Antony has described his skill as ‘art’ following criticism for his showboating. 

After doing the spin in United’s win over Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League, manager Erik ten Hag said he will ‘correct’ his winger. 

Ten Hag explained: “I don’t have a problem with tricks as long as it’s functional. 

“When there is a trick like that, it’s nice as long as it’s functional. If you’re not losing the ball, then it’s OK – but if it’s a trick because of a trick, then I will correct him.”

The skill received a somewhat negative response from fans and pundits but Antony responded on Instagram saying: “We’re known for our art and I’m not going to stop doing what got me where I am.”

PSG and Brazil star Neymar then backed up his international teammate, posting on social media to say: “Keep it up, don’t change anything! Go for it boy! Boldness and joy.”

Instagram: NeymarJR

These types of skills are largely popular in Brazil and Brazilian football culture where Antony would have learned his trade. 

Neymar and many others have showcased skill on the biggest stage as they express themselves on the pitch and Man United midfielder Fred has backed this approach. 

Fred said: “I think it starts with us being Brazilians. Brazilians have quality in their blood. It’s always been that way since Pele, to have quality, to dribble, to score, to dance, to smile. So I think people have to understand this aspect that we have.

“I think those who have quality have to show it on the pitch there. If you want to control differently, you can control. You want to do a spin that he likes to do, you have to do it. Dance, you can dance. As long as it’s with respect to the opponent, obviously.”

So with Antony picking up some form for United, he may whip out his signature move once again before the season ends.