Sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery to rediscover your spark — and Antony is living proof.
After a rocky spell at Manchester United that left fans questioning his £86 million price tag, the Brazilian winger is turning heads in Spain with Real Betis.
On Saturday, he delivered a moment of brilliance that might just be his biggest yet in La Liga.
A Stunning Match-Winner Against Espanyol
In the dying moments of a tight clash against Espanyol, Antony picked up the ball on the right wing, cut inside with that signature left foot, and curled a breathtaking strike into the top corner.
It was a goal worthy of winning any game — and it did.
Real Betis claimed a 2-1 victory, and their travelling fans erupted as the 25-year-old celebrated his latest moment of redemption.
A New Star in Seville
Since making the switch to Betis on loan in January, Antony has looked like a player reborn.
He’s now racked up seven goals and four assists — that’s 11 goal contributions in just a few months.
It’s a stark contrast to his time in Manchester, where consistency was a struggle and confidence often seemed lacking.
Betis fans have quickly fallen in love with him. Some are even calling for the club to make the move permanent.
Club legend Joaquin couldn’t resist joining the campaign either — half-joking that he’d help kidnap Antony if that’s what it took to keep him in Seville.
“I’ll Provide the Car,” Jokes Joaquin
After Antony’s impressive strike in the Europa Conference League semi-final first leg against Fiorentina, Joaquin couldn’t help but gush.
“I’ll provide the car if he has to be kidnapped, but let him stay no matter what,” he said with a grin. “This is the moment to enjoy.”
And why not? Betis are thriving, sitting just one point behind Villarreal in La Liga’s race for a Champions League spot, and they’re in a strong position to reach the Europa Conference League final. The momentum is very real.
European Hopes and Transfer Talks
Manuel Pellegrini’s side heads to Italy this week for the second leg of their tie against Fiorentina, hoping to protect their 2-1 lead.
But off the pitch, attention is turning to Antony’s future.
According to reports in Spain, Betis want to keep him — either on another loan or via a full transfer.
But they may have competition. Atletico Madrid, led by Diego Simeone, are reportedly weighing up a move.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are said to be asking between £34 million and £42 million for the winger.
It’s unclear whether the Red Devils see a future for him at Old Trafford.
Manchester Woes Continue
While Antony’s fortunes rise in Spain, United’s struggles continue back in England.
They’re stuck in 15th place, just two points above the drop zone, following a wild 4-3 loss to Brentford.
It’s been a miserable season — and Antony’s departure hasn’t exactly helped matters.
Reflecting on His Time at United
In a recent interview with ESPN Brasil, Antony opened up about why things didn’t click in Manchester.
It wasn’t just about form — his personal life, he says, played a huge role.
“My personal life got in the way a lot,” he admitted. “Like it or not, it affected me.
I know my potential. It’s not for nothing I played at a World Cup, it’s not for nothing I was sold for a lot of money.”
Despite some good moments, he acknowledged that his performances didn’t live up to expectations.
“Of course I could have done more, I could have done better,” he said.
What Comes Next?
The big question now is whether Antony’s revival in Spain will lead to a permanent exit from Manchester.
With Betis fans behind him, interest from Atletico Madrid, and a fresh wave of confidence, the next few months could define the winger’s career path.
Whatever happens, one thing’s clear: Antony has shown he still has the talent to make headlines — and this time, for the right reasons.