Antony is almost certain to join Real Betis. According to international media, the forward will be loaned from Manchester United for the next six months. The 24-year-old Brazilian will make Real Betis the fourth club of his career.
Expectations were sky-high when Antony made his big-money move to Manchester United in the summer of 2022.
Signed for a staggering €95 million from Ajax, the Brazilian forward arrived at Old Trafford with the reputation of being one of the most exciting young wingers in world football. The transfer made headlines not only because of the hefty fee but also due to the close ties between Antony and then-United manager Erik ten Hag, who had worked with him at Ajax. Many saw the move as a natural progression for Antony to showcase his skills on one of the sport’s biggest stages, the Premier League.
However, Antony's time at Manchester United has fallen short of expectations. Over 96 appearances in all competitions, he managed only 12 goals and 5 assists a modest return for a player brought in to make a significant impact in United’s attack. While he showed flashes of brilliance, including some dazzling dribbles and long-range strikes, consistency proved elusive. His performances were often criticized for being one-dimensional, relying heavily on his left foot and lacking variation in his attacking play. His inability to adapt to the Premier League’s physical and fast-paced style also raised questions about his long-term fit at the club.
Under Erik ten Hag, Antony initially enjoyed a prominent role in the starting lineup. Ten Hag, familiar with Antony’s capabilities from their time together at Ajax, trusted him to deliver. Yet, the forward struggled to replicate the form he displayed in the Eredivisie. His decision-making in the final third and end product frequently came under scrutiny. When Rúben Amorim replaced Ten Hag as United’s manager, Antony’s situation worsened. The new coach’s tactical system did not favor Antony, and his playing time dwindled, pushing him further down the pecking order.
Faced with limited opportunities and Antony’s inability to rediscover his best form, Manchester United decided it was in both the player’s and the club’s best interest to explore a temporary move. Real Betis, a mid-table La Liga side with ambitions of climbing higher, stepped in to offer Antony a fresh start. The Spanish club secured him on a six-month loan deal, giving the 24-year-old a chance to reboot his career in a less pressurized environment. Reports indicate that the deal does not include a purchase option, meaning Antony will return to Manchester United at the end of the loan spell. He remains under contract with the Premier League club until mid-2027, leaving his long-term future uncertain.
Antony’s football journey began in 2018, when he broke into professional football with São Paulo. As a raw but talented teenager, he quickly caught the eye with his speed, skill, and confidence on the ball. In 52 appearances for São Paulo, Antony showcased his potential, prompting Ajax to secure his signature for just under €16 million a significant investment for the Dutch club. At Ajax, Antony flourished under Ten Hag’s guidance, playing a key role in the team’s domestic dominance and impressive runs in European competitions. His performances in Amsterdam earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team, where he has since made 16 appearances and scored twice.
For Real Betis, the acquisition of Antony is a calculated risk. The Spanish club sees this loan as an opportunity to add flair and creativity to their attack, qualities Antony undoubtedly possesses. Playing in La Liga could suit Antony’s skill set better, given the league’s emphasis on technical ability and less physicality compared to the Premier League. Moreover, the move allows him to reset and rediscover his confidence away from the intense spotlight of English football.
Antony’s loan to Real Betis comes at a crucial juncture in his career. At 24 years old, he is at an age where he must start delivering on his potential consistently. This stint in Spain could provide him with the platform to rebuild his reputation and remind the football world of the talent that once made him one of the most sought-after young players in the game. Whether he can seize this opportunity and reignite his career remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the coming months will be pivotal for Antony’s future in football.
