Know the Story Behind Antony: A Footballer with Modest Origins

Raised by Cremilda Prudencio and dos Santos, Antony’s story is a tribute to his family’s unwavering faith and sacrifice, highlighted by the joys of fatherhood with his child, Lorenzo, and the partnership with his wife, Rosilene Xavier. This biography unfolds his evolution as a Brazilian footballer famed for his dribble finesse and speed, alongside a glimpse into the life that shapes his remarkable talents.

Step into the world of Antony Matheus dos Santos, who is famously known as Antony. A footballer whose extraordinary journey from Sao Paulo’s local grounds to the spotlight of Manchester United football captures the essence of a dream realized.

Know the Story Behind Antony: A Footballer with Modest Origins

Know the Story Behind Antony: A Footballer with Modest Origins

Preamble:

Our take on Antony’s biography starts with his early years and follows his journey as the Brazilian talent rose to prominence in Europe. To give you a taste of the engaging nature of Antony’s story, we’ve put together a gallery that captures his early life and rise to fame. You’ll find that this gallery provides a concise summary of his life story.

Biography of Antony the Footballer. Behold his Early life and Success Story.

Biography of Antony the Footballer. Behold his Early life and Success Story.

It’s well-known that Antony’s form has fluctuated, but he was once celebrated as one of the most thrilling dribblers to come out of Brazil, being born in the year 2000. Antony shines with his acceleration, explosive speed, agility, balance, dribbling skills, and ball control—qualities that define him as a modern-day winger.

Despite the many accolades he’s received, few people know the full story behind Antony. We’ve put together his biography to describe his love of Brazil and football. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.

Antony’s Childhood Story:

To start with, Antony, often called Tony, was born Antony Matheus dos Santos on February 24, 2000. He was born in Osasco, São Paulo, Brazil, to his mother, Cremilda Prudencio, and his father, Mr. dos Santos.

Antony is the youngest of three children, with an older brother and sister. Here’s a glimpse of his parents, who played a significant role in his early life.

This is Antony’s parents. Have you noticed he looks like his mum? Antony’s Dad is looking sharp.

This is Antony’s parents. Have you noticed he looks like his mum? Antony’s Dad is looking sharp.

Growing Up:

During his childhood, Antony spent most of his time with his older siblings and parents. His elder brother is named Emerson Santos, while the name of his older sister was being researched at the time of writing his biography.

Looking at photos from Antony’s early days, you’ll likely agree with the saying that the youngest children in families often have a special charm. Indeed, Antony was quite the charmer even as a young boy. Here’s a glimpse of the Brazilian star with his family during his early years.

Antony’s growing up days. They took this photo after he, Cremilda (his mum), Emerson and his sister had just returned from watching a football match.

Antony’s growing up days. They took this photo after he, Cremilda (his mum), Emerson and his sister had just returned from watching a football match.

As the youngest child in his family, Antony was cherished and well-cared-for, but he was never spoiled. Unlike his older brother Emerson Santos, Antony didn’t face the same family pressures.

Antony was more adventurous and eager to embrace new experiences compared to his siblings. His parents didn’t worry about him meeting high expectations, so they went above and beyond to support his one true passion: football.

Antony’s Family Background:

To start with, Antony dos Santos’s family isn’t super-rich but lives comfortably as average Brazilian citizens. He comes from a humble middle-class background.

The driving force behind his family is his father, Mr. dos Santos, who understands the importance of providing affection and closeness to his loved ones.

As you’ll see below, Antony’s background reflects a decent and caring home, highlighting the solid and supportive family he comes from.

Antony's family members. What a blessed home.

Antony’s family members. What a blessed home.

Antony’s family is made up of working-class parents who have strong financial education and have never struggled with money. Each member of the family is not only good-looking but also has had a clear sense of direction in life from the very beginning.

Family Origin:

Antony’s great-grandparents moved from Portugal to Brazil, giving him family roots in southern Europe.

If you didn’t know, Antony’s full name, Antony Matheus dos Santos, follows Portuguese naming customs. His first or maternal family name is Matheus, and his second or paternal family name is dos Santos.

This map explains Antony's Family origin.

This map explains Antony’s Family origin.

Where Antony comes from, the municipality of Osasco, is located in Greater São Paulo and ranked 5th in population among São Paulo municipalities.

Antony Education:

Like his elder brother (Emerson), the youngster (when the time got right) went through basic education.

Early on, Antony’s parents found him a school that suits his footballing ilk – where he had his early childhood and primary education.

At his school, Antony naturally developed a footballing IQ followed by mental maturity. Between the ages of five to nine, everyone viewed him as one of the best soccer kids in the city of Sao Paulo.

After he had made it in life, the Brazilian once found time to pay a visit to his school. Returning to the school where he spent his childhood, grew up, played and learned was indeed an unforgettable experience.

Antony pays a visit to the school he attended as a child.

Antony pays a visit to the school he attended as a child.

While there, he thanked each teacher, employee and friend – especially those who were part of his success story.

Antony also had an interaction with the children. He explained to them the concept of Dreaming and believing.

Antony Football Story:

Approaching his teenage years, a successful trial with São Paulo youth saw the youngster beginning what he termed a great soccer journey. At age 10, Antony joined São Paulo’s academy.

Since the day he enrolled, all the Brazilian did (day and night) dreamt of seeing himself becoming a professional footballer. Antony is pictured below with one of his early coaches.

One of Antony's early photos - during his time with Sao Paulo Academy.

One of Antony’s early photos – during his time with Sao Paulo Academy.

A few years later, during his early teenage years, Antony began to make a huge impression on his performance. That saw the Brazilian not just moving through the age ranks but acquiring medals while doing that.

The soccer whiz kid began winning medals early on in his career.

The soccer whiz kid began winning medals early on in his career.

One of the biggest achievements of Antony’s youth career was helping his team, his Sao Paulo team win the J League World Challenge.

This is a biennial football tournament in Japan comprising two clubs from the J1 League and international teams outside Japan.

After his victory, the rising star – on the 26th of September 2018 – reached a career milestone.

To the joy of Antony’s parents and family members, signing a professional contract happened that blessed day.

Behold the time the footballer just realized his biggest childhood dream.

Road to Fame Story:

For the fast-rising winger, becoming a professional footballer is one thing. Another thing was to set his next big career goal, which was no other than helping São Paulo Futebol Clube win trophies.

By doing that, the Brazilian believed he would get the opportunity to get scouted by top European scouts.

In fact, nearly every professional footballer in the country dreams of that – that is, moving to any of Europe’s top clubs.

Hard work and consistency followed, and thanks to that, the speedy winger got an intense and unforgettable 2019. He didn’t just win titles, but also realized the dream of becoming a Dad.

That year, in 2019, Antony’s name began to ring bells in Brazilian football. As a reward for his youth success, the rising star got invited to join his country’s under-23 football team.

Antony, alongside Matheus Cunha, was among the national stars who participated in the Maurice Revello Tournament’s win. This football tournament traditionally features U-17 to U-23 national team youth players.

The Goals Antony scored for Brazil U23 truly justify the huge hype around him. It explains why he would definitely be successful with the senior national team.

Playing for Brazil’s U23 side was very exciting for Antony. He, alongside Matheus Cunha (CF), Bruno Guimaraes (DM) etc, were among the 2020 Summer Olympic winners.

Tricolor Paulista Success Story:

The turning point in his São Paulo senior career came when the team signed one of Brazil’s most decorated footballers – the person of Dani Alves.

After being welcomed back to his homeland (Brazil), the legendary footballer told his teammates and fans the following words;

“Never stop believing in your dreams because it is possible to achieve them.
Now, after having gone around the world, it is a thrill to receive this mantle here, and the moment has come.”

As the main articulator and captain of the team, Dani Alves worked well with Antony, helping him to achieve his set goals.

That teamwork didn’t come without a trophy and most importantly, getting recognized by European scouts.

Dani Alves, the funny father figure, motivated Antony to achieve success.

Dani Alves, the funny father figure, motivated Antony to achieve success.

Antony Biography – The Rise to Fame Story:

Sadly, the year 2020 marked the surge of COVID-19. On the flip side, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter in Antony’s life.

That year, he made an emotional farewell to Sao Paulo – the club of his youth.

Precisely on the 23rd day of February 2020, the joy of Antony’s family knew no bounds as their last Jewel got his anticipated European call.

According to the BBC, Ajax signed Brazil U23 winger Antony Matheus dos Santos for a whooping £13m from Sao Paulo

Following the presumption of 2020 football duties after the COVID-19 surge, he wasted no time in defending the hype around his name.

On 13 September 2020, Antony began scoring for Ajax (on his debut), a feat that made him an important member of the squad.

At the time of creating his Biography, the Sao Paulo native, alongside his brother from another mother, David Neres, has just helped the AFC Ajax win the KNVB Cup.

This is a big competition in the Netherlands organized by the Royal Dutch Football Association.

Judging by Antony’s diverse strengths (passing, holding the ball, finishing, dribbling and taking longshots), it is clear that the Brazilian would go places.

Truly, it is only a matter of time before he gets courted by some of Europe’s top-tier clubs. The rest of Antony’s Biography, as we say, is now history.

Who is Rosilene Silva?

She is Antony’s partner – a beautiful woman who has an applicable reason to pursue her life goals.

Rosilene Silva prides herself as that person, a complete package who has provided the needed comfort that has made Antony settle well in Europe.

This is Rosilene Silva. The woman in Antony's Life.

This is Rosilene Silva. The woman in Antony’s Life.

Being able to find someone of your type, a person you click with so naturally, is the greatest feeling ever. This is the case of Antony Matheus dos Santos and his wife, Rosilene Silva.

The footballer didn’t meet his lover in the Netherlands. Rather, both Antony and Rosilene have been together since his early career days in Brazil.

Rosilene Silva and Antony dos Santos look very compatible. They have been destined for each other from day one.

Rosilene Silva and Antony dos Santos look very compatible. They have been destined for each other from day one.

There is no trace of evidence that Antony and Rosilene are married. One thing is, however, sure. Their families have accepted their togetherness. Early on, the couple decided to have a child.

Lorenzo dos Santos:

On November 8, 2019, Antony and Rosilene celebrated the arrival of their first child, a son they named Lorenzo.

Welcoming a child was an incredible moment for the new parents, and Antony and Rosilene were filled with immense joy as they held Lorenzo for the first time.

Antony and Rosilene welcomed Lorenzo in 2019. What a feeling! Holding and seeing your child for the first time.

Antony and Rosilene welcomed Lorenzo in 2019. What a feeling! Holding and seeing your child for the first time.

For Antony, spending quality time is essential in his relationship with his son. The winger prioritizes making the most of his time with Lorenzo, placing it at the top of his to-do list.

Successful and friendly fathers are likely to have their sons follow in their footsteps. For this reason, we are of the view that Antony’s son (Lorenzo) is likely to become a footballer – like his Dad.

Imagine him playing alongside his Dad when he is age 39.

As a footballer, having a son when you are 19 is simply amazing. Surely, Antony's son is likely to be a footballer.

As a footballer, having a son when you are 19 is simply amazing. Surely, Antony’s son is likely to be a footballer.

Personal Life:

Antony is more intuitive, almost more than any footballer of his age. He is someone who possesses the ability to set realistic goals for both his personal and career life.

Antony is very religious, and his spiritual beliefs have contributed to his humbleness and gentleness.

Workout Routine:

As it is always said, the secret of one’s future is hidden in their daily routine. Antony’s workout routine reveals to us the secrets of his greatest weapon – which is SPEED. Watch it below.

Antony Lifestyle:

The way the Brazilian lives his life and spends his money is centred around one thing – his beautiful family.

Antony, his wife (Rosilene) and his son (Lorenzo) are big fans of seaside vacations. Here is proof of the trio enjoying the basking of the scorching sun.

Antony's Lifestyle - EXPLAINED!

Antony’s Lifestyle – EXPLAINED!

For Antony, and his wife, Rosilene, a fabulous aquatic vacation cannot be complete without enjoying a jet ski.

Both lovers are pictured in the prestigious Indaiá Beach waters (located in Sao Paulo), enjoying their God-given right.

Antony's Lifestyle - EXPLAINED!

Antony’s Lifestyle – EXPLAINED!

Antony’s Car:

Everything we know about the Brazilian is centred around family and cares less about the act of showcasing an exotic lifestyle.

There is no such thing as showcasing to fans his big mansions (houses) and other things Neymar does.

We got to know that Antony owns what looks like a Mercedes-Benz C-Class – among his cars.

We found this after seeing Rosilene and Lorenzo returning home from the Johan Cruijff ArenA.

Antony's Car - is parked just beside his wife (Rosilene) and son (Lorenzo).

Antony’s Car – is parked just beside his wife (Rosilene) and son (Lorenzo).

Antony Family Life:

When you think of a noble Brazilian household with humble parents who have sacrificed so much to produce a footballer, then look no further than that of the dos Santos.

On a border scale, this is who and what family is/means for the Brazilian.

In this section, we’ll tell you more about Antony’s Dad, Mum, and Siblings. Without further ado, let’s begin.

About Antony’s Father:

When you call your Daddy a “Guy”, it denotes insurmountable friendship. Mr dos Santos is the mirror to his son – a man who was instrumental in making Antony’s professional career become a reality.

One crucial thing you might not know about Antony’s Dad is the fact that he was once a chain smoker.

At the time his son placed this photo on his Instagram, he made fans realize that his father smoked for 38 years and was brave enough to quit this addiction – in 2014.

Antony and his Dad celebrating the National Day Against Tobacco.

Antony and his Dad are celebrating the National Day Against Tobacco.

No doubt, Mr dos Santos’ Cigarette quitting story is a lesson to addicted fathers and young people who still find it difficult to stop their smoking addiction. According to his footballing son;

You can too! Making a decision to stop smoking is yours and it can start now!

About Antony’s Mother:

Cremilda Prudencio is the superwoman who gave birth to the Brazilian winger. She is always at Antony’s beck and call whenever he needs her for advice.

Cremilda Prudencio is a perfect example of a good mother.

Cremilda Prudencio is a perfect example of a good mother.

About Antony’s Brother:

The first thing to notice about Emerson Santos is the fact that he took after his Mum’s facial looks. The handsome and very lively Dude is the first son and child of the family.

This is Emerson Santos. The older brother of Antony. He is a lively guy.

This is Emerson Santos. The older brother of Antony. He is a lively guy.

Although not a footballer, Emerson Santos is a role model to his younger brother. Together with his Dad, he and Junior Pedroso (a football agent) manage Antony’s career.

It is lovely to see observe the male children of the Santos household (Emerson, Antony, and Lorenzo) spending time together.

Exhibiting a culture of family togetherness is one of the few secrets of their success.

The sons and grandson of dos Santos Family - having a fun time.

The sons and grandson of dos Santos Family – having a fun time.

About Antony’s Sister:

Obviously, she is the only daughter of the family. We got to know her precisely around the 30th of January 2019 – when Antony uploaded the family photo with the caption;

Judging by his Mum's looks, we are not surprised that Antony would a beautiful sister.

Judging by his Mum’s looks, we are not surprised that Antony would a beautiful sister.

My base, my champions !! I Thank my family for always being by my side … I am that I am for them !!!

It appears Antony’s sister, unlike Emerson, has made a conscious effort not to make herself public. Our team is still searching to uncover her name, and we’ll unveil it as soon as we find out.

Antony Facts:

Wrapping up the Biography of the Brazilian winger, we’ll use the concluding section to unveil more truths about him. Without wasting much time, let me begin.

The 360-Degree Dribble:

Many Brazilian footballers pride themselves on dribbles, amazing skills and ball tricks. Like the Legendary Ronaldinho, Antony has his own signature skills – one which we call the 360 Degree Dribble. Watch it below;

Comparing Antony’s Ajax Salary to the Average Brazilian Citizen:

Where he comes from, the average Brazilian who earns 373.25 euros monthly would need 46 years to make Antony’s weekly salary with Ajax.

Antony’s Religion:

So far as we know, the Sao Paulo native is among the most devout Christian footballers of his generation.

Back then and even to date, Antony has no issues in displaying his faith openly. His parents had him as a Catholic, and he joined around 123 million Brazilians in the Religion denomination.

Judging by his Mum's looks, we are not surprised that Antony would a beautiful sister.

Judging by his Mum’s looks, we are not surprised that Antony would a beautiful sister.

The Big FIFA Potential:

Antony’s FIFA profile is simply amazing. As observed below, he doesn’t just have speed but plenty of acceleration and agility.

More interesting, Antony is among very few stars of his age with the highest potential rating. No wonder he, alongside Emile Smith Rowe and Jeremy Doku, etc, once ranked among the names of FIFA’s 21 best young players.

Whether you’re a novice or a Career Mode veteran, it might delight you to know how much Antony will grow in years to come. For this reason, we decided to present the result of his growth test.

Conclusion:

The Biography of Antony reminds aspiring professional footballers of the true importance of humility while having the determination to achieve our life goals.

The Brazilian starlet has his upbringing in a very humble family. Truly, it behoves us to commend his parents – Cremilda Prudencio (mother) and Mr dos Santos (father) for a job well done. Big sister and brother (Emerson) also played a role in the upbringing of the last family child.

Thanks to a well-planned life, Antony is one among few footballers (like Phil Foden) who has gotten a son (Lorenzo) at 20 years or below.

Imagine becoming a footballer at 18 when his Dad is 38. This, by implication, means that Lorenzo could feature along with his Dad in the future.

Antony’s wife, Rosilene Silva is a special woman with that extra commitment to ensuring that her husband gets all the emotional support required for him to succeed in his career. Together, the couple makes up one of the youngest successful football families in Brazil.

Thank you for exercising patience with us in our daily quest to provide Childhood Stories and the Biographies of Brazilian Footballers.

We assure fairness and the accuracy of her content. Please reach us via contact when you notice any mistake in our write-up.

Last but not least, please let us know your perception of this article on Antony’s Bio. What do you think about the footballer and the Biography write-up?

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