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Manchester United have long been known for spending big in the transfer market.
The club’s reputation for extravagant deals stretches back over the past decade.
Despite their vast expenditure, success has often eluded them.
Under Erik ten Hag, United’s spending reached new heights.
Since his appointment, the club spent over £600 million on new players.
Yet, United’s performances have rarely matched their financial outlay.
High-profile signings have failed to deliver consistent results.
Players like Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek, and Romelu Lukaku arrived for significant fees.
Yet, each of them all went on to fail in succeeding at the club.
The club’s inability to make smart, long-term decisions has cost them dearly.
INEOS, United’s new part-owners, are determined to change this.
They have emphasised the need for financial prudence moving forward.
However, reversing years of reckless spending will not happen overnight.
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According to an article from The Athletic, one decision in particular stands out.
During the summer of 2022, United faced a crucial transfer decision.
The club needed a right winger and considered two options.
Antony was Ten Hag’s primary target.
The Brazilian signed for £86 million from Ajax.
The Athletic revealed that United’s scouting department supported this decision.
However, Raphinha was the alternative.
Raphinha left Leeds United for Barcelona that same summer, costing just £55 million.
Since then, Raphinha has thrived at Barcelona.
Under Hansi Flick, he has become one of their most important players.
Meanwhile, Antony has struggled to justify his hefty price tag.
A recruitment decision that Richard Arnold, then-chief executive, was involved in approving.
A theme of failure under the Glazers that INEOS are adamant to cut out.
Antony was of course, thriving at Ajax.
However, to spend over £80 million on the Brazilian remains baffling.
Moreso, when the club could have saved around £30 million on a player also Premier League proven.
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