‘The best decision i’ve made’

Real Betis loanee Antony says he is having the time of his life in Spain following his resurgence since leaving Manchester United.

When United loaned Antony to Betis, the Spanish club believed they were acquiring a player capable of making a difference – rather than the struggling winger who had lost his way in the Premier League.

The Brazilian had arrived at Old Trafford in 2022 for a staggering £81 million but failed to replicate the form he had shown at Ajax. By the time he left in January, his confidence had evaporated completely.

Betis, however, had a clear vision for how to revive Antony’s career. Since joining, Antony has notched four goals and four assists in 12 games across all competitions.

Speaking to DAZN, he said: “I am very happy. I found myself, I needed to find myself, I needed to be happy, I needed my family to be happy too. Every day that goes by, I see that it’s the best decision I’ve made.

“I am enjoying the city, the club, every day. [Seville] reminds me a lot of things from Brazil – the sun, the food, everything. The people are also very warm. I’m very happy and that’s important for us as Brazilians.”

The Antony effect 😮‍💨🐐 pic.twitter.com/DedeEuMCKl

— OneFootball (@OneFootball) March 31, 2025

When Antony joined, Betis sat 10th in La Liga, but a six-game winning streak – including a 2-1 derby triumph over Sevilla – has propelled them to sixth place, just six points off a Champions League berth.

Betis haven’t played in Europe’s premier competition since the 2005-06 season, and keeping Antony beyond this season is now a strong possibility.

Betis do not have a purchase option in the loan deal, but Antony himself appears open to extending his stay in Spain.

“I am very grateful to United for everything. I lived difficult moments at United, but also very good moments,” he added.

“I’m also preparing myself to be here today, enjoying myself. And well, today my head is here, I am very happy.”