Antony, the Brazilian winger currently on loan at Real Betis from Manchester United, has candidly opened up about the challenges he faced during his time at Old Trafford, while subtly hinting at his aspirations moving forward. The 25-year-old, who joined United in a high-profile £86.3 million transfer from Ajax in the summer of 2022, spoke to DAZN about his rollercoaster experience in England and his newfound happiness in Spain.
“I had difficult times at Manchester United, but also very good ones,” Antony said. “I think it prepared me to be here today, enjoying myself. My mind is here, and I’m very happy.” His comments reflect a mix of gratitude and relief, suggesting that his stint with the Red Devils, though turbulent, has shaped him for his current chapter.
Antony’s time at Manchester United was marked by inconsistency and intense scrutiny. Despite a promising debut goal against Arsenal, he struggled to replicate the flair and productivity that justified his hefty price tag, managing just 12 goals and 5 assists in 96 appearances. Under both Erik ten Hag—who sanctioned his signing—and current manager Ruben Amorim, Antony found himself slipping down the pecking order, culminating in a loan move to Real Betis in January 2025.
Since arriving in La Liga, Antony has experienced a renaissance. In just 11 appearances for Betis, he has scored four goals and provided four assists, a stark contrast to his single goal in 14 games for United this season. His performances have reignited debates about his potential and raised questions about whether his struggles in Manchester were more a product of environment than ability.
“Wherever I go, I’ll always speak highly of United,” Antony added, acknowledging the club’s faith in him. “If they pay that kind of money for you, it’s because you have talent and quality. I’m very grateful to the club and to Erik ten Hag for what we experienced together, for the titles, and for everything I’ve learned.” His words hint at a desire to maintain a positive legacy with United, even as his future appears to lie elsewhere.
While Antony’s loan deal with Betis does not include an option to buy, speculation is rife about his next steps. Reports suggest that Betis are keen to extend his stay, potentially through another loan or a permanent transfer, though financial constraints may complicate negotiations. Manchester United, meanwhile, are reportedly planning a significant squad overhaul in the summer, with Antony among the players deemed surplus to Amorim’s vision. Former United goalkeeper Ben Foster recently warned that offloading Antony could cost the club a hefty £12 million payout, given his £200,000-a-week wages and reluctance to accept a pay cut.
Antony himself remained coy about his long-term plans but dropped a tantalizing hint: “My mind is here, and I’m very happy.” His emphasis on his current contentment in Seville, coupled with earlier comments praising the city’s weather and lifestyle over Manchester’s, suggests he may push for a prolonged stay in Spain. “The sun here helps a lot,” he previously told reporters, underscoring how the change of scenery has revitalized him both on and off the pitch.