
Antony’s move to Manchester United in August 2022 was supposed to be the perfect reunion between the Brazilian winger and his former Ajax manager, Erik ten Hag. At £81.3m, United made him their second-most expensive signing in history, expecting a star capable of transforming their attack.
But two years later, Antony is leaving for Real Betis on loan, with United covering over 84% of his wages. With just 12 goals and 5 assists in 96 appearances, his time at Old Trafford has been marked by inconsistency and unfulfilled potential.
A Promising Start Turns Sour

- Bright Beginnings: Antony scored in his first three Premier League games, raising hopes of a successful signing.
- Diminishing Returns: The early promise quickly faded. Antony’s goal contributions became sporadic, with his last Premier League assist dating back to April 2024.
- Missed Opportunities: His high-profile misses, like a misfire against Southampton in January 2025, have become emblematic of his struggles.
Factors Behind the Struggles
- Price Tag Pressure: Antony’s £81.3m fee made him a lightning rod for criticism, especially given the financial strain at Manchester United.
- Off-Pitch Challenges: Antony faced legal issues, including assault allegations (later dropped), which undoubtedly impacted his mental focus.
- Tactical Mismatch: Under new manager Ruben Amorim, Antony has struggled to find a place, with most of his appearances coming off the bench.
A Fresh Start at Real Betis
Antony’s move to Real Betis provides a chance to rebuild his career away from the intense scrutiny of Old Trafford. Betis will look to capitalize on his raw talent, while United aim to recoup some of their investment through this loan deal.
Legacy at United
Despite his personal journey from poverty to global football, Antony’s United stint will likely be remembered as one of the club’s worst transfers. His story underscores the dangers of big-money moves that fail to deliver on the pitch.
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