Brazilian winger Antony has revealed the struggles he faced at Manchester United before his permanent return to Real Betis. The 25-year-old admitted he felt “disrespected” while pushing for a transfer to Spain, spending over 40 days isolated in a hotel away from the first team.
“Those were very tough months in England: more than 40 days in a hotel, training alone, I felt disrespected. But I don’t want to cause a scandal, that’s life. I’m grateful to the club—there were bad times and good times, after all, I won two trophies,” Antony said.
From United Struggles to Betis Bliss
Signed from Ajax in 2022 for £85 million, Antony struggled to find his footing in the Premier League. He joined Betis on loan in January 2025 before making the move permanent this summer. Antony emphasized that his time at United is now behind him: “My family travelled to Seville days before the deal was finalised; I had the house rented. My heart told me to return to Betis.”
The Brazilian’s decision also reflected his priority on happiness over money. He was also said to have rejected a more lucrative offer from Bayern Munich to return to Manuel Pellegrini’s team. “I always look at happiness first. I know my children and my wife are happy here. Money is important, but happiness is much more important,” Antony explained.
Finding Form in Spain
Antony’s arrival was an instant success and he won two consecutive Man of the Match awards in his opening fixtures, twice as many as in two-and-a-half years in England. He has recently scored a crucial late equaliser in the Europa League so is still able to bring it on the big stage.
Author’s Opinion
Antony’s journey is a reminder that even the best transfers can arrive with unseen baggage. His truth about United exposes the difficulties that footballers can go through, his Betis experience reminds that being happy and united with your family is more important than money or a top sport. This might be just what he needs to find himself again.
As featured on ManUNews.com
