Sofyan Amrabat is receiving backing from his former Manchester United colleagues following his official presentation as a Real Betis player. Fenerbahce allowed the Morocco international to depart on loan during Spain's transfer deadline day, just hours after Antony secured a permanent return to the same club.
The duo featured alongside each other on 18 occasions at United during Amrabat's temporary stint at Old Trafford throughout the 2023/24 campaign. The midfielder returned to Fiorentina when that season ended, despite then-boss Erik ten Hag's desire to secure his services on a permanent basis.
Upon Amrabat's arrival at United in 2023, Ten Hag expressed his admiration for the player by declaring: "He is very dynamic, he's very good in the duels. So we are pleased that we have him at United and I think he will contribute to our high targets we set."
Fenerbahce subsequently acquired him on a temporary deal last term with a mandatory purchase clause worth approximately £10million, with Amrabat featuring 39 times during that loan period. Nevertheless, despite that switch becoming permanent on 1 July, another transfer emerged two months later.
Owing to the September international window, during which Amrabat earned his 67th and 68th caps for the Atlas Lions, the player's official presentation only took place on Monday, reports Manchester Evening News. "Thanks to everyone for the warm welcome," Amrabat shared on Instagram following the announcement.
"It's an honour to be part of Real Betis. Ready to fight for this badge." Several of Antony's former Manchester United teammates, including current stars Bruno Fernandes and Joshua Zirkzee, showed their support by liking the post.
Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek also joined in. During the unveiling, Amrabat hinted at having had a conversation with Antony. "I'm happy to be here; everyone has been telling me fantastic things about the atmosphere at this club," he said.
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Their start to the season mirrors that of United, with just one victory from their first five matches, although they've only suffered one defeat, drawing the other three. Their most recent draw was on Sunday when they twice rallied to secure a point against Levante.
Antony played the entire match, but it was ex-Watford striker Cucho Hernandez and former West Ham United star Pablo Fornals who netted their goals.