Antony & Ajax Settle Dispute Over Manchester United Transfer

7 March 2025, 19:23 published Updated 7 March 2025, 19:23

Ajax and Antony Reach Agreement After £300,000 Fine

Former Ajax winger Antony has reached an undisclosed settlement with the Dutch club after contesting over £300,000 in fines related to his 2022 transfer to Manchester United.

The Brazilian was penalized for missing three training sessions before completing his £86m move to Old Trafford. However, he has always insisted he had permission to sit out training while finalizing his transfer.

The Dispute: Ajax’s Fines and Antony’s Legal Challenge

Ajax, having already sold key players like Lisandro Martinez, Sebastien Haller, and Ryan Gravenberch, initially rejected multiple bids from United. However, Antony forced through the move, missing two matches and three training sessions.

To discipline him, Ajax imposed three separate fines, totaling €360,000 (£305,000). When Antony’s attempts to reduce the fines were ignored, he took the club to court in January 2024.

The Brazilian argued that former Ajax manager Alfred Schreuder had given him the green light to skip training, but Ajax still issued its largest fine (€230,000/£192,000) just days later.

Arbitration Ruling and Final Settlement

A Dutch arbitration committee ruled in February 2024 that Ajax’s fines were excessive but could not confirm if they were completely unlawful, as Schreuder was not reachable to verify Antony’s claims.

Ultimately, both parties opted for an out-of-court settlement.

Ajax’s statement (March 7, 2024):
“Ajax and Antony have reached a settlement in an arbitration case… Both parties have found a mutually satisfying solution. Given the positive history between Ajax and Antony, all parties are pleased that this matter is now behind them.”

What’s Next for Antony?

Although still a Manchester United player, Antony is currently on loan at Real Betis, hoping to rediscover his best form before returning to Old Trafford.