How Antony Became a Hero at Real Betis After Struggles at Man Utd
Antony’s loan spell at Real Betis has been so impactful that the Spanish club’s players are jokingly desperate to keep hold of the Brazilian winger.
Betis captain Isco playfully warned Antony on Instagram with a message starting, “Antonio of Triana, we’re going to kidnap you: this is your first warning.”
Former Betis winger Joaquin chimed in, promising to provide a getaway car if needed, insisting, “He has to stay.”
Such enthusiasm reflects just how much the 25-year-old has transformed the team since arriving on loan from Manchester United in late January.
Before Antony’s arrival, Betis were ninth in La Liga. Since then, they’ve climbed to sixth place, securing a spot in next season’s Europa League, and are set to play in their first-ever European final against Chelsea in the Conference League.
In 25 games with Antony, Betis have won 13, drawn eight, and lost just four, scoring an impressive 51 goals at a rate exceeding two per game.
Antony himself has directly contributed to 14 goals—nine goals and five assists—including crucial strikes in both legs of the semi-final against Fiorentina.
His free-kick in Florence and a key assist sealed a 4-3 aggregate victory, putting Betis on the verge of historic glory.
Spanish football expert and BBC columnist Guillem Balague highlighted why Antony has become a Betis hero.
He explained that Sevilla’s culture admires players who are a bit different—those who have faced struggles and find their spark in the city.
“Seville is a place for bullfighters,” Balague said, “and Antony is exactly that type of player who does things his own way. Betis fans adore him because he’s been effective and emotional, showing sides of himself they never saw at United.”
At Man Utd, Antony appeared distant and cold, but in Betis’ colors, he’s shown passion and joy, winning over supporters.
Antony’s journey has not been easy. Signed by United’s Erik ten Hag in 2022 for a club-record fee of £81.3m, Antony started well, playing 44 games and scoring eight goals in his first season.
But his second season saw a downturn: fewer starts, more substitute appearances, and eventually no Premier League starts before moving to Spain.
In an emotional interview with TNT Sports Brazil, Antony admitted, “I couldn’t take it anymore. I wasn’t happy. I lost the desire to play football and had to find myself again.”
He spoke openly about how off-field challenges, including police investigations over serious allegations—which he denied and was not charged for—affected his mental health and family life.
Despite his revival at Betis, Balague doubts the club can afford to keep Antony permanently. United would demand at least €50 million, a steep price for Betis even as they qualify for European competition.
Antony’s wages also remain high, making a return unlikely without a wage reduction or financial help from United.
Moreover, Antony’s style does not fit United’s current tactical system, and with major squad changes expected at Old Trafford, his future there appears limited.
For now, Antony’s loan has reignited his career and given Betis a player who could deliver historic success.
But whether he stays or moves on will depend on complex financial and sporting negotiations before the transfer window closes.
How Antony Became a Hero at Real Betis After Struggles at Man Utd