Antony Breaks Down in Tears, Reveals Heartbreaking Truth About Manchester United Struggles at Betis Unveiling
Antony opened up about his prolonged transfer ordeal, revealing that only his family understands "how challenging" it was to endure the wait for Manchester United to finalize a deal with Real Betis for his permanent move.
The Red Devils executed several transactions during the closing days of the summer transfer period. Beyond Ruben Amorim's team acquiring Senne Lammens, they also successfully offloaded Alejandro Garnacho and Antony.
The Brazilian winger secured a move to Real Betis in a transaction reportedly valued at €25 million (£21.7 million; $29.1 million), finally concluding Antony's troubled tenure wearing the red jersey. Though it required waiting until the final moments of Deadline Day, the player achieved his goal of returning to Seville, where he had spent the latter portion of the previous campaign on loan.
During his official presentation in Triana, Antony discussed both the transfer and the extended summer negotiations between Real Betis and Manchester United.
"What a contrast! Seville surpasses Manchester in beauty. I've finally arrived. I endured over 40 days in hotel accommodation; it was extremely challenging, but everyone understood my desire to return to Betis," Antony expressed.
"The experience has been incredibly tough, but we've made it. I'm excited to don the Betis jersey once more. I can only express gratitude to all who facilitated this move."
Antony consistently expressed his intention to remain at Real Betis after completing his loan spell at the conclusion of the 2024–25 campaign. The attacker rejuvenated his playing career in Spain, accumulating 14 goal contributions across 26 matches under Manuel Pellegrini's guidance.
Manchester United had hoped to secure a superior offer for Antony compared to what Real Betis could provide, one that would enable them to recover a substantial portion of his original €95 million (£82.3 million, $111 million) transfer fee when he joined the Red Devils in 2022.
Ultimately, the English club reduced their valuation and permitted Antony to pursue his career in Seville.
"Only my family comprehends how difficult the situation was [in Manchester]," Antony continued emotionally. "Training in isolation... but I believed this incredible moment would arrive.
"Naturally, I feared it might not materialize, but I persevered because I maintained such strong belief."
Antony can now finally close the chapter on his unsuccessful period at Manchester United, during which he managed just 12 goals in 96 appearances. The 25-year-old is determined to assist Real Betis in their pursuit of Champions League qualification following their sixth-place finish in the previous season.
"We will concentrate on achieving remarkable results. Betis possesses great stature and can challenge any opponent," Antony declared.