Neal Maupay of Brentford has poked fun at Antony of Manchester United for his post-match antics following their FA Cup semi-final penalty shootout victory against Coventry City.
Coventry City mounted a valiant comeback against United, who held a comfortable 3-0 lead. In the end, penalties determined the match, which United won 4-2. Although Rasmus Hojlund scored the game-winning penalty, Antony’s response caused debate.
Supporters and pundits alike have criticized the Brazilian winger, who entered the game as a substitute in the second half, for his aggressive gesture of cupping his ears towards the Coventry squad during the celebrations. Known for his own contentious on-field moments, Maupay added his voice to the chorus of dissatisfaction. Posting a video of Antony’s birthday party on social media, Maupay said: “Just for the record, not even I would do this.”
Coming from Maupay, who has been involved in a number of controversial incidents this season, the remark is especially incisive.
These include emulating James Maddison’s darts celebration against Tottenham Hotspur and the heated exchange with Kyle Walker during the Manchester City match, in which the Frenchman was accused of bringing up the full-back’s kids. Maupay, however, has refuted the allegations, telling The Times: “The people who know me, they know I wouldn’t say something like that, but it is a bit unfair because if I don’t talk then people will think I’m guilty.
