From Man Utd Disaster to Superstar: How This Transfer Flop Now Rivals Neymar and Ronaldo

Just months after Manchester United absorbed a massive financial hit on their expensive acquisition, Antony has been described as the ideal combination of Neymar Jr.'s Brazilian flair and Cristiano Ronaldo's relentless dedication by his Real Betis colleague Marc Bartra.

Antony has discovered sanctuary in Seville. The Brazilian exile from Manchester, who fell out of favor under Erik ten Hag and failed to establish himself during Ruben Amorim's reign, was transferred for merely €22 million (£19.4 million, $25.6 million) this summer—less than one-fourth of the €95 million United invested in the compact winger just three years prior when acquiring him from Ajax.

Betis even enjoyed the benefit of a trial arrangement. Antony joined the Spanish club on loan during the latter portion of last season and immediately made his mark. The Brazilian earned MVP honors in his opening two matches wearing green and white, exceeding his single Player of the Match recognition across 62 Premier League games.

Utilizing the liberation provided by Manuel Pellegrini—both strategically and psychologically—Antony netted nine times and contributed five assists as Betis secured sixth place in La Liga and advanced to the Conference League final.

"In my view, he possesses that Brazilian flair and skill," Betis captain Bartra praised to MundoBetis. "I consistently describe him as somewhat of a fusion between Neymar and Cristiano: possessing that Ronaldo mindset of constantly pursuing excellence and maintaining exceptional concentration."

This recognition will be especially meaningful for Antony given that he considers these two La Liga legends among his primary inspirations. "The artistry of Ronaldinho, Cristiano, and Neymar motivated me during childhood," he shared with The Players' Tribune in 2022. "I observed these masters with wonder through borrowed internet access, then ventured onto the concrete field attempting to replicate their brilliance."

According to Bartra's perspective, Antony is now living out his dreams in Spain's premier division.

What Led to Antony's Struggles at Man Utd?

Bartra attributes much of Antony's revival to psychological factors. Having experienced a comparable renaissance through a mid-season transfer, the former Barcelona youth product elaborated: "I vividly recall my own journey when arriving from [Borussia] Dortmund. I joined during winter, and it felt like an injection of something extraordinary, an immediate sense of appreciation and warmth from day one.

"I witnessed the same transformation in him, creating that mutually beneficial scenario. Betis benefited from his presence, and he flourished with Betis.

"I developed a strong connection with him, and additionally, you could observe that the squad comprises wonderful individuals who provide space, belonging, comfort, and supporters who embrace them."

Any initial goodwill toward Antony at Old Trafford quickly dissipated. Purchased for more than double what Ole Gunnar Solskjær had been prepared to invest during his United tenure, Ten Hag was initially vindicated by his former Ajax protégé scoring in each of his opening three Premier League matches. Antony would find the net merely twice more throughout the following three campaigns.

Following an unremarkable inaugural season as United's primary right-wing option, Antony's entire English experience became overshadowed by domestic violence allegations that surfaced in September 2023. Antony refutes all charges.

"I believe that beyond my professional career, my private circumstances significantly interfered, due to the experiences I endured, the situations I faced there," he revealed to ESPN Brasil last season. "Whether acknowledged or not, it deeply impacted me."

A fresh environment has clearly removed the burden weighing on Antony. "I prioritize contentment above all, and I found genuine joy here," he stated when explaining his decision to rejoin Betis during the summer despite allegedly receiving a more financially attractive offer from Bayern Munich.

"I understand my children and spouse are content here. Prior to deciding, I consulted my family; it's a remarkable city with incredible people. Not merely the supporters, but everyone. I emphasized my happiness first, knowing that when I'm fulfilled, positive outcomes follow.