Manchester United outcast Antony continued his terrific start to life in Spain on Sunday night with another goal for Real Betis.
The Brazil international left Old Trafford during the January transfer window to join Betis on loan having started just three games back in Manchester all season under three different managers in Erik ten Hag, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ruben Amorim.
The 24-year-old has been an instant hit in La Liga, making it three goals in his first four appearances for Betis following Sunday’s 3-0 win over Real Sociedad. Sunday’s strike was the best of the bunch, lashing home an exquisite volley from the edge of the box.
Antony also provided the assist for Marc Roca in the 69th minute, scooping his third man of the match award in the process.
The Brazilian enjoyed a similarly bright start to his career at United following his £85million from Ajax, scoring in his opening three games against Arsenal, Manchester City and Everton. But his last 18 months in Manchester proved disastrous.
His haul of three goals for Betis equals his tally for United last season. Antony made 38 appearances in all competitions with a paltry return of three goals and two assists – scoring just once in the Premier League.
Antony’s only goal contribution for United this season came in the 7-0 win over Barnsley in the FA Cup from the penalty spot.
United’s decision to allow both him and Marcus Rashford to leave in January without making further additions has come under increased scrutiny following news Amad Diallo is likely to miss the rest of the season.
It leaves Amorim with the senior attacking options of Joshua Zirkzee, Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho – a trio that has collectively mustered just one goal between them in 2025, again drawing a blank in the 1-0 defeat to Tottenham on Sunday.
The loan deal that took Antony to Betis does not include an option or obligation to make permanent at the end of the season with Antony’s agent explaining over the weekend there are ‘no long-term plans’ around the winger’s future.
But speaking after Sunday’s win, Antony made it clear he is feeling right at home at Betis.
‘I’m really happy with the game we had today. We knew that it was really important to win and we keep going to pick up confidence,’ Antony said.
‘I think the most important thing is to be happy. Here, I’m really happy as I said before.
‘I’m really happy to score and help the team and we keep going like this.’
