Manchester United flop Antony keen to push for a move to Real Betis
Manchester United did not start the new Premier League season as desired. The 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Sunday further worsened the team’s situation. In the initial minutes, United tried to take hold of the game and created some chances, but gradually all the shine faded.
Altay Bayindir’s wrong decision on the corner proved costly for the team, and Riccardo Calafiori scored a goal with a header. New striker Benjamin Sesko was given a chance in the second half, but the effect was not visible. Bryan Mbeumo’s two chances were definitely exciting; first, a brilliant overhead attempt that went out, and then a header that was stopped by David Raya. In the end, United had to face defeat and disappointment in the very first match.
The tussle between Antony and Real Betis
Amidst this difficult start, another story reflects the situation of the club. Manchester United’s Brazilian winger Antony is constantly adamant about returning to Real Betis. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Betis and re-established himself there a little bit. Antony’s situation at Old Trafford has been a downhill one for a long time. United bought him for a big fee from Ajax, but he has failed to live up to expectations in the Premier League. Both goals and assists tallies have been disappointing, and the pressure has been mounting.
Manchester United flop Antony keen to push for a move to Real Betis.
Antony (Via X)
The Brazilian has put in some good performances while on loan at Betis, which have restored his confidence. That is why he now wants to return there full-time, especially as he needs regular playing time ahead of next year’s World Cup. As things stand, Betis have made two offers, but United remain adamant about their €40m asking price.
That is why the deal has been delayed. Antony and his camp are hoping the matter is resolved quickly, but the club do not seem to be backing down from their valuation at the moment. United themselves want to find a buyer so that the team’s squad is balanced and funds are also available, but the market does not seem to be ready to pay a huge amount for Antony. This tussle has put the Brazilian’s return in limbo. (Source: CaughtOffside).
Now the question is whether United should lower their demand for Antony. On one hand, the player’s performance has been below expectations, and the club are not getting any benefit from him. If Betis want to take the right-winger and Antony himself wants to play there, then perhaps reducing the price for the deal would be the right step.
On the other hand, this move could prove to be an opportunity for Antony to get his career back on track. He will get game time at Betis and will be able to prove himself before the World Cup. From United’s point of view, selling Antony anyhow seems to be the most practical option. The team needs both salary space and money for new players. Staying stubborn may prolong the deal, but it is probably difficult to get a better return than Antony now. Therefore, the club must adopt a realistic attitude and close this chapter, as we keep eyeing Senne Lammens as Emi Martinez’s pursuit hits a dead end. Meanwhile, Alan Shearer has also warned Ruben Amorim and Manchester United to strengthen their goalkeeping position.