Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has openly addressed why Antony has been in outstanding form at Real Betis. Meanwhile, the Spanish club has already made a decision about a permanent transfer, following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s surprising demands.
The Brazilian winger joined United from Ajax in the summer of 2023 in a deal worth £86 million (€104.1m, $108m) with add-ons included. However, his time at Old Trafford was largely underwhelming, with fans and pundits frequently criticizing his performances. In 96 appearances for the Red Devils, Antony managed only 17 goal contributions—12 goals and five assists—leading to his departure once Amorim took charge.
Antony’s Transformation in Spain
Moving to LaLiga has revitalized Antony’s career. Since joining Real Betis, he has scored three goals in seven matches and provided two assists. His impact has earned him three Man of the Match awards, and he played a crucial role in Betis’ impressive 2-1 victory over reigning champions Real Madrid last weekend.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Amorim explained why Antony has flourished in Spain.
“When you play against any team in England, the physicality is there. If you don’t have physicality, you will struggle a lot,” Amorim said in an interview with Rio Ferdinand.
“Antony is so much better now in Spain. It’s [because of] a lot of factors but I guarantee you it’s physicality.”
Betis’ Transfer Decision and Ratcliffe’s Demands
Given Antony’s bright start, Betis is reportedly keen on keeping him beyond his loan spell. However, negotiations have hit a major stumbling block. According to Fichajes, Betis is unwilling to meet the hefty €50 million (£41.3m, $52.4m) price tag set by Manchester United’s minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
For context, Betis’ most expensive signing remains the €30 million deal for Brazilian winger Denilson back in 1998. The club has only exceeded the €20 million mark twice since then—on Borja Iglesias and Giovani Lo Celso in 2019. Given these financial limitations, meeting United’s demands seems nearly impossible unless the Premier League side lowers their asking price or another club steps in.
Reports on Sunday suggested that a major Italian club is now considering a move for Antony, which could provide an alternative solution for United. Notably, Betis did not secure a purchase option or an obligation to buy in Antony’s loan deal, leaving his future open.
Antony’s Happiness at Betis
Despite the uncertainty, Antony has expressed his joy at playing in Spain.
“I am very happy here, but I do not know what will happen in the future,” he told Kooora. “I always say that I enjoy every day with the club, the city, everything, and I give my best for the team. It is still too early to talk about my future.”
He also emphasized how rediscovering his confidence has played a big role in his resurgence.
“I think that to regain my confidence, the most important thing was to reconnect with myself. I found that here, and that’s why I’m very happy and more confident every day.”
Antony’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. LaLiga’s official social media page celebrated his performance against Real Madrid, posting his picture with the caption ‘The Antony effect.’ Additionally, Sporting News praised his defensive contributions in the match, stating:
“Antony’s attacking impact may have been limited today, but his defensive work has been outstanding.”
Pressure Mounts on Amorim and United’s Transfer Plans
Meanwhile, Amorim is facing increasing scrutiny at Manchester United, especially after the club’s FA Cup exit on penalties against Fulham. United’s holders failed to convert two penalties, allowing Fulham to secure a quarter-final spot against Crystal Palace.
Spanish reports claim that United officials are already considering a Premier League rival as a potential replacement for Amorim, should results continue to decline.
Additionally, the club is looking to strengthen its squad in the summer, with reports linking them to multiple Sporting CP players, including winger Francisco Trincão. However, they are likely to face stiff competition from a direct Premier League rival.
In a surprising development, reports from Italy suggest United is willing to sell striker Rasmus Højlund at a loss, with claims that the Danish forward himself is seeking an exit. Højlund has struggled in front of goal, failing to score in his last 18 games, including another frustrating performance over the weekend.
