Antony may be enjoying a resurgence at Real Betis, but the Manchester United loanee is keeping his cards close to his chest when it comes to future transfer decisions.
Limited opportunities at Manchester United led to Antony’s loan move to Real Betis in January.
Those who have watched the 25-year-old since his move to Spain would be forgiven for thinking it’s a completely different player who left Ajax for United in a deal amounting to £86 million in 2022.
In just a couple of months, Antony has made southern Spain his new home, having recorded eight goal contributions in his first 12 appearances for Real Betis.
Antony has rediscovered his form and confidence in Seville, but Real Betis are unlikely to afford a permanent signing for the tricky winger.
It remains unclear whether United would consider another loan deal for Antony.
Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images
Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images
Antony remains coy about future plans
Real Betis had plenty of reason to celebrate over the weekend when Antony featured in 2-1 win over rivals Sevilla, ending a seven-year derby drought.
It was Antony’s first Seville derby and he performed well without registering a goal or assist. The Brazilian completed 78% of his passes, created three chances and recorded 64 touches with three of those in the opposition box.
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The win over Seville kept Real Betis sixth in the La Liga standings, but they are still in contention to qualify for the Champions League, even though Athletic Bilbao are six points clear in fourth place.
It all adds to a positive environment at Real Betis, where Antony is enjoying himself.
However, Antony has stressed it’s too early to decide on his future, despite settling in quickly in his temporary surroundings.
Antony used two words to indicate his feelings at Real Betis.
“I’m very happy here, but it’s still too early to decide,” Antony told Mundo Deportivo. “I enjoy every day in the Betis shirt.
“I identify a lot with the fans because of the feeling; we Brazilians are like that too.”
Antony and Real Betis may seem like a match made in heaven, but only time will tell if the Spanish club can fund a deal to sign him permanently.
Recent reports claim fellow La Liga outfit Atletico Madrid are keen on Antony, which will come as a concern to Real Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini.
It all depends on how much United will demand for Antony’s signature in the summer.
Real Betis urged to crowdfund Antony deal
Antony has earned plenty of plaudits since his move to Spain.
It doesn’t come as a surprise that other La Liga clubs are starting to show an interest in the winger, who could be available for as much as £40 million this summer.
With Ruben Amorim unlikely to welcome Antony back to Old Trafford, United are set to offer the Brazilian around to potential suitors at the end of the season, unless a deal can be agreed upon with Real Betis.
Speaking to the press after the memorable win over Sevilla, former Real Madrid midfielder Isco urged Real Betis to crowdfund a permanent deal for Antony.
This proves that Antony is becoming a wanted man in Spain.
It also means United’s decision to send Antony on loan has been a success.