Among the strikers borrowed by Manchester United during the winter transfer window, Antony, who left Old Trafford, was without starting a single Premier League game in the 2024-2025 season.
The Brazilian winger, who was signed for £ 86 million, had already taken a role under Erik Ten HAG in the manager’s final campaign. When Ruben Amorim took responsibility in November, Antony’s chances were to regain a place at the Start XI.
Amorim gave the 24-year-old a platform to prove himself and provided him with nine appearances, including two starts in the Europa League against Bodo/Glimt and a short excursion in the 4: 3 defeat of the Carabao Cup against Tottenham.
However, his influence was minimal and after only 55 minutes he was replaced in this collision from Spurs.
After moving to Real Betis, Antony didn’t give time to leave an impression. In just his second appearance in La Liga, he scored his goal list from the first half of the season at United and achieved a 3-2 defeat against Celta Vigo.
Since his arrival in Spain, Antony has been appointed player of the game twice, which indicates that he could thrive better outside of English football.
Antony has already received more Laliga Motm prices this season than Vinícius JR 🤯🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/ktwgrQnrce
– Onefootball (@onefootball) February 10, 2025
His style of play and his attack instinct may not be suitable for the Premier League, where the defenders were quickly adapted to his game after his first trips.
Since Ineos now controls United football operations, it is best served by accepting that Antony is better suited for Spanish football and enables him to continue his career at Betis beyond this season.
The prospect of a permanent stay was already recognized by Ramon Alarcon, CEO of Betis, who recently spoke to the matter in an interview.
He said, “I think (we could hold Antony in the long term). The CEO of United recently called me. We sent you all the movements and details of the player during the week so that you can see that we take care of your asset.
“With Manchester (United) and the player there is a very good chemistry. It is a way that he will continue next season, why not? “
There is currently no purchase option in the current lending business, which means that the two clubs would have to negotiate a transfer fee in summer if Betis decides to make Antony’s move permanently.
