The Real Betis transfer of Antony has officially brought an end to one of Manchester United’s most disappointing signings in recent history. Signed from Ajax for £86 million in 2022, Antony failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford, scoring only 12 goals in 96 appearances. However, after a successful loan spell in Spain, he has now completed a permanent move to Real Betis for £21.6 million, signing a long-term deal until 2030. The Brazilian winger broke down in tears during his official presentation, reflecting on his difficult Manchester United experience and explaining why he turned down a last-minute approach from Bayern Munich.
Antony’s Real Betis Transfer: Key Details
- Player: Antony
- Age: 25 years
- Previous Club: Manchester United
- New Club: Real Betis
- Transfer Fee: £21.6 million (€25m) – £19.6m fixed + £2m bonuses
- Contract: Until 2030
- Sell-On Clause: 50% future net sell-on
- Wages Offered Elsewhere: Bayern Munich offered to double wages, but Antony chose Betis
- Loan Record at Betis: 9 goals and 5 assists in 26 games last season
- Manchester United Record: 96 appearances, 12 goals, 5 assists in three years
Antony’s three years at Old Trafford were plagued with inconsistency, off-field distractions, and declining form. After a promising debut season where he helped United win the Carabao Cup and secure a top-four Premier League finish, his performances dipped sharply. By January of last season, he had scored just once in 14 appearances, leading to him being shipped out on loan to Betis.
The situation worsened when Erik ten Hag placed Antony in the so-called “bomb squad” alongside Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford during pre-season, training separately from the main group. This decision left the winger isolated, frustrated, and desperate for a fresh start. During his Betis unveiling, Antony admitted how mentally draining it was: “What happened in Manchester, only I know how difficult it was. Training separately… but that’s part of life. I knew this moment would come.”
The loan to Real Betis in January 2025 transformed Antony’s fortunes. Under Manuel Pellegrini, the Brazilian rediscovered his confidence, scoring nine goals and adding five assists in 26 matches. He quickly became a fan favourite at the Estadio Benito Villamarín, with his flair, work rate, and passion aligning with the club’s footballing culture.
Antony Real Betis Transfer Presentation
Antony’s official presentation at the Estadio Benito Villamarín was nothing short of spectacular, with thousands of Betis fans turning up to welcome their new signing. The Brazilian winger was visibly emotional, breaking down in tears as he addressed the crowd and spoke about his difficult Manchester United chapter. He promised supporters that he would “run for every Betis fan” whenever he stepped onto the pitch, highlighting his determination to repay their faith. His arrival has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm in Seville, with fans flooding the streets to celebrate his Real Betis transfer.
Antony expressed his joy at being back in a city he described as “more beautiful than Manchester,” adding that the affection from the Betis faithful was a key reason behind his decision to reject Bayern Munich’s offer and commit his long-term future to the club. With this Real Betis transfer, the winger begins a new chapter where both player and fans hope for success. Supporters believe that the Real Betis transfer will reignite Antony’s career and make him one of LaLiga’s standout performers this season.
. Fans in Seville greeted him with overwhelming affection, which Antony described as life-changing. “For me, affection is very important and it’s not all about money. Here I have a lot of feeling and affection, it was always my first choice,” he said, adding that Sevilla is “more beautiful than Manchester.”
One of the most surprising revelations from Antony’s Real Betis transfer saga was his decision to reject Bayern Munich. The winger admitted that the German champions contacted him just before the deal was finalized, offering to double his wages. However, Antony said he had already given his word to Betis and would not betray that trust.
“One day before the deal was completed, I spoke to Bayern. But I told them the deal with Betis was 95 per cent complete, and I would honour my word out of respect and love,” Antony revealed. “With all respect to Bayern, which is a world-class club, I am calm with the decision I made.”
From Manchester United’s perspective, Antony’s departure marks one of the biggest financial losses in their transfer history. Having paid £86m to Ajax, they sold him for just £21.6m, suffering a £60m loss. However, the inclusion of a 50% sell-on clause provides some hope of future compensation should Betis sell the player on at a profit.
The highlight of Antony’s Real Betis transfer unveiling was his emotional breakdown in front of fans and media. Overcome with tears, the Brazilian recalled the hardships he faced in Manchester and his relief at returning to Spain. “I spent more than 40 days in a hotel, it was very hard. But everyone knew that I wanted to return to Betis. Now with more time, we have many things to achieve,” he said. He added that he wants to dedicate his performances to the fans: “When I put on the shirt, I’m going to run for each of the Béticos.”
Despite Bayern Munich’s lucrative offer, Antony’s loyalty to Betis highlights his desire for stability, affection, and a footballing environment where he feels valued. For Betis, the Real Betis transfer is a coup, bringing in a motivated and talented winger who has already proven his worth in LaLiga. For United, it is a costly reminder of failed recruitment strategies.
FAQs: Antony’s Real Betis Transfer
1. How much did Real Betis pay for Antony’s transfer?
Real Betis paid £21.6 million (€25m) for Antony, including a fixed £19.6m fee plus £2m in bonuses.
2. Why did Antony reject Bayern Munich?
Antony said Bayern offered to double his wages, but he chose Betis out of respect, affection, and loyalty, as his deal was already close to completion.
3. What was Antony’s record at Manchester United?
Antony scored 12 goals and provided 5 assists in 96 games across three seasons with Manchester United.
4. How did Antony perform at Real Betis on loan?
During his loan spell, Antony scored 9 goals and provided 5 assists in 26 appearances, becoming a fan favourite.
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