In what can only be described as a remarkable turnaround, Antony's loan spell at Real Betis has transformed the Brazilian winger from a struggling player at Manchester United into a key figure in La Liga. Since joining Betis in January 2025, Antony has scored four goals and provided four assists in just 11 appearances, showcasing a resurgence that has caught the attention of fans and executives alike.
After a disappointing stint at Old Trafford, where he contributed only 12 goals and five assists over 96 appearances since his £86 million transfer from Ajax in the summer of 2022, Antony's fortunes have dramatically changed in Seville. The 26-year-old has quickly become a fan favorite, and his performances have sparked discussions about making his loan move permanent.
Real Betis' CEO recently confirmed that the club is keen to secure Antony's services beyond this season. "In Betis’ sporting department, we work on ‘devalued’ players, analysing data from players who have reached very high moments and peaks, but who for various reasons have significantly decreased their performance," he stated. This strategy has proven effective, as Antony has thrived since his arrival, looking like a player reborn.
Despite financial constraints that have plagued the club in recent years, Betis has reportedly agreed to cover a substantial portion of Antony's wages, which has been a significant investment given his impact on the pitch. Sporting director Manu Fajardo expressed optimism about retaining the Brazilian, emphasizing that keeping Antony is part of their long-term plan. "We can’t rule out anything in football, and hopefully Real Betis will remain in the top European positions to benefit from his continuity and the arrival of other great players," he added.
However, the ability to secure a permanent deal for Antony may hinge on Betis qualifying for European competition. The club's financial situation means they could struggle to afford Antony without the additional revenue that comes from playing in Europe. As it stands, Betis is currently positioned sixth in La Liga, and their performance in the remaining matches will be crucial.
Antony himself has reportedly expressed a desire to remain in Seville, a sentiment that has been echoed by his agent, Junior Pedroso. In a recent interview with Spanish outlet Marca, Pedroso defended Antony's decision to leave Manchester United, arguing that the player had not received the necessary prominence or confidence to succeed at the club. "To attribute Antony's lack of success at Manchester United solely to the question of physicality is a very superficial argument and does not reflect reality," he stated.
Pedroso highlighted that under Ruben Amorim, who managed United during Antony's tenure, the winger was only utilized in nine of 15 games, logging just 252 minutes of play—representing a mere 18.6% of the total possible minutes. This lack of playing time, according to Pedroso, severely limited Antony's ability to showcase his talent. "How can you judge an athlete without a minimum sequence to prove his worth?" he questioned.
In contrast, Antony has been given the freedom to express himself at Betis, where he has quickly adapted and become one of the standout players in the team. His resurgence not only highlights his potential but also raises questions about the circumstances that contributed to his struggles at United.
Ruben Amorim, while addressing the media last month, acknowledged the pressures of playing for a club like Manchester United, which can weigh heavily on players. "You need to cope with the pressure; sometimes they go to other clubs and they are freer with no pressure," he noted. This statement resonates with Antony's current situation, where he appears to be thriving in a less pressurized environment.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Real Betis and their plans for Antony. The club's executives are hopeful that their strong performances will not only secure a European spot but also allow them to make a permanent move for the talented winger. With Antony's desire to stay and the club's commitment to him, this story is far from over.
The narrative surrounding Antony serves as a reminder of the complexities within football, where player development can be heavily influenced by the environment and management styles. As he continues to shine in Spain, the football world will be watching closely to see if he can maintain this form and help propel Real Betis to greater heights.
In conclusion, Antony's journey from Manchester United to Real Betis illustrates the unpredictability of football careers and the importance of finding the right fit for players. With the summer transfer window on the horizon, the potential for a permanent deal looms large, and it could mark a significant chapter in both Antony's career and Real Betis' ambitions.
