The Brazilian winger’s one summer wish—to return to the Villamarín Stadium and continue where he left off last season—is finally coming true as Antony is joining Real Betis.
In the winter of 2025, Antony was given a new chance to establish himself elsewhere after a “tough” stint at Manchester United after his arrival in 2022.
Betis was lucky to take a chance on him by offering him a loan.
Antony put on a series of strong performances in 26 games, tallying five assists and nine goals.
His influence was indisputable; he helped them qualify for the Europa League by finishing sixth in La Liga and advancing to the Europa Conference League final, the Heliopolitanos’ first-ever European final.
Given his performances in Spain, it appeared that Antony’s suitability for English football was the problem rather than the player.
He had the opportunity to rekindle his career away from Old Trafford when United decided it was time to sell after his loan period ended.
Betis the only destination Antony wanted
Several elite European clubs were impressed by Antony’s comeback and started asking about his availability. Despite being open to offers, United was in a difficult position because the winger was only interested in going back to Betis.
Betis claimed they couldn’t afford the £35 million permanent agreement that United demanded, but INEOS was willing to approve the transfer.
Betis suggested either a joint ownership model with a sizable sell-on provision or another financing arrangement. United turned down both, insisting that any departure must be final and come at a fair price.
Betis’ connections chilled as negotiations delayed. Antony continued to turn down offers, hoping for his ideal return to Spain, despite United’s hopes that another team would step in and outbid the Spaniards.
Frustrated United reportedly threatened to sideline him until January unless he accepted one of the alternative moves on the table. Still, Antony stood firm.
Breakthrough as deadline day looms
With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Betis finally gave in. According to a report relayed by The Peoples Person, they agreed to a loan deal with an obligation to buy.
The Sun has since revealed the financial details of this deal, they claim:
“The Conference League finalists are set to pay £3million to take Antony back to LaLiga.
“However, the former Ajax star won’t be returning to Old Trafford in 2026.
“That’s because Betis are expected to buy him for £33m.”
INEOS’s tough stance over Antony’s exit has paid off; they are getting what they wanted and avoiding a negative PSR hit. A deal less than £32.5 million for the former Ajax man would have seen United incur a PSR loss.
A new chapter for Antony
Though Antony never truly hit the heights at Old Trafford, his resurgence in Spain offers hope. If he continues to thrive at Betis, he may yet rewrite his European story.
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