Antony Drops Biggest Hint Yet on Decision Over Man Utd Return

Antony has put his struggles at Manchester United behind him, insisting he holds no grudges as he thrives on loan at Real Betis. The Brazilian winger, who arrived at Old Trafford from Ajax in 2022 for £86 million, endured a tough spell, managing just 12 goals in 96 appearances before being sent to La Liga in January.

Since joining Betis, the 25-year-old has rediscovered his form, scoring four goals and providing four assists in 11 appearances across all competitions. His future remains uncertain, as Betis have neither an obligation nor an option to buy him, meaning negotiations with United would need to be reopened for a permanent move or another loan spell.

Speaking to DAZN, Antony expressed his gratitude towards United and manager Erik ten Hag but made it clear his focus is now on Betis.

“If they pay that kind of money for you, it’s because you have talent and quality. Wherever I go, I’ll always speak highly of United,” he said. “I’m very grateful to the club and to Erik ten Hag for what we experienced together, for the titles, and for everything I’ve learned. I had difficult times there, but also very good ones. I think it prepared me to be here today, enjoying myself. My mind is here, and I’m very happy.”

Antony believes his resurgence is partly due to a change in environment, adding: “I found myself—I needed to find myself and be happy. I needed my family to be happy too. Every day that goes by, I see that it was the best decision I could have made. I’m enjoying the city, the club, and everything.”

“It reminds me a lot of Brazil because of the sun, the food, the people are also very happy. All of that is important for someone like me who is used to it.”

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While Antony has his own perspective on his resurgence, Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has weighed in on the winger’s improved form, attributing it to the difference in physicality between the Premier League and La Liga.

"When you play against any team in England, the physicality is there," Amorim said. "If you don't have physicality, you will struggle a lot. Antony is so much better now in Spain. It's down to many factors, but I guarantee you physicality is a big one."

However, Antony’s agent, Junior Pedroso, was quick to push back against Amorim’s assessment, dismissing it as overly simplistic.

"We respect the opinion of coach Ruben Amorim, but we completely disagree with his analysis," Pedroso responded. "To attribute Antony's lack of success at United solely to physicality is a very superficial argument and does not reflect reality."