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£86m star explains his recent rejuvenation away from Man United

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Siddharth Juyal | Last updated May 7, 2025 11:28 AM ET

On-loan Real Betis star Antony admits he made the best career decision of his life by leaving Manchester United in January. The Brazilian joined Betis on a season-long loan deal during the January transfer window after failing to impress Ruben Amorim.

United have suffered immensely this season and find themselves in an embarrassing position in the Premier League competition right now. After playing 35 games so far in the Premier League, Man United have suffered 16 losses, currently in 15^th position.

Their disastrous start cost Erik ten Hag his job as Amorim took charge in the middle of the current season. However, Amorim’s arrival failed to rejuvenate the club as his tactical style proved too much for the current senior team.

The former Sporting CP boss made several changes and let perennial strugglers like Marcus Rashford and Antony leave on loan. Antony joined United under Ten Hag for £86m in the 2022 summer, an enormous amount that he failed to justify.

However, things have changed for Antony since he joined Betis, playing a pivotal role in their Champions League qualification battle. The Spanish club are currently sixth in the La Liga, one point behind fifth position, which secures the Champions League.

Speaking to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Antony shared his happiness at Betis after joining them from United last January window. He said:

“I go to bed here and wake up smiling. I always say that the best decision I’ve ever made was coming to Betis. I’m happy, and when I’m happy, things go well. For me, of course, it’s important to score goals and provide assists, but being happy is even more important. I found myself here, I’m very happy here, and things are going very well.”

However, Antony remained coy about his future as the Spanish side has no clause set to make the deal permanent. He added:

“The future? It’s very early; I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I’m very happy here. I’ve found myself enjoying football. It’s crazy right now, although I know how talented I am, so I prioritised going where I knew I’d be happy, even though I had better offers.”

The 25-year-old has made 20 appearances for Betis in all competitions this season, scoring seven goals and providing two assists. Antony’s incredible rejuvenation has raised questions about his future once the current season ends.

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The Brazilian clearly benefits more at a club that can keep him happy, and ideally, they will have enough money to satisfy United and secure a permanent deal. All parties benefit most from a mutual deal, as Antony does not fit into Amorim’s plan.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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