'This guy is a phenomenon!' - Antony recalls first 'dream' first meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo & reveals the two Man Utd players he considers to be his 'closest friends'

Antony joined Manchester United from Ajax in September 2022 and played alongside Ronaldo until the Portuguese superstar left the club by mutual agreement two months later after an explosive interview with Piers Morgan. The Brazilian may not have been able to play alongside Ronaldo for long, but admits it was a dream to meet up with his childhood hero.

He told The United Stand: "I grew up admiring Cristiano Ronaldo. This guy is a phenomenon!! It was a dream come true when I met him."

Antony was then asked about the team-mates he considers to be his 'closest friends' at Old Trafford, and replied: "Casemiro and Diogo Dalot."

Ronaldo's second spell at United ended on a bitter note, with the club cutting ties with the Portugal international after he admitted he did not have respect for manager Ten Hag. Antony could be set to follow Ronaldo out of the Old Trafford exit door after failing to impress following his big-money move. The Brazilian is still yet to score or assist this season and could reportedly be put up for sale in the January transfer window.

Antony has come under scrutiny this season but has hit back at what he calls the "malicious criticism" he has received. United will be hoping for some sort of response on the pitch too from the winger as the Red Devils bid to turn around a difficult campaign. Attack has been a particular issue for United, with Ten Hag's side having only scored 16 goals in 14 Premier League games.