The Brazilian winger, a high-profile £81.3m signing for United in 2022, endured a difficult period at Old Trafford, leading to his January loan move to the La Liga club. Manchester United are reportedly still contributing to his wages, hoping the loan will help him rediscover his form and ultimately recoup some of their investment. Crucially, the loan agreement between the two clubs does not include any option or obligation for Betis to buy Antony.
Following an encouraging start to his Betis career, which included a Player of the Match performance on his debut, Antony was questioned about the possibility of extending his stay beyond the current season. He remained non-committal but suggested a willingness to discuss the matter, saying, “If I am to stay longer, I would have to talk to the president and everything. And for now, I want to play and score goals and give assists. I have to help the team, later we can talk about that.”
Antony made it clear that he specifically chose Betis over other clubs who expressed interest in him, feeling that the Spanish side offered the ideal environment to rebuild his career after his struggles in Manchester. “Yes, I had proposals, but when Betis appeared, I felt a certainty in my heart that it was here,” he explained. He expressed his optimism for the future, stating, “I hope to achieve many goals and 1,000 things. I feel very calm, confident, I’m very happy. I feel incredible, now I have to work every day to be at my best and play for the team.”
While acknowledging the difficulties he faced at Manchester United, Antony emphasised the importance of moving forward. “I had a difficult time, but we have to respect the process,” he commented. Looking ahead, he added, “My idea is to play everything and contribute with goals and assists, enjoy every day and help the team, the coach and everyone.” His words suggest a desire to put his Manchester United experience behind him and focus on making a significant impact at Betis, potentially laying the groundwork for a longer-term stay.
