Antony has been a revelation since joining Real Betis on loan from Manchester United in January with his surprising performances leading to the La Liga side’s current unbeaten run
Real Betis captain Isco quipped that the club might well need to launch a crowdfunding campaign to secure Antony’s permanent return from Manchester United come the summer. His comments follow the Brazilian winger’s stellar performances in Andalusia since joining on loan at the turn of the year.
Antony played a key role in Betis’ comeback win in the Seville derby on Sunday, and he was seen basking in the euphoric post-match celebrations, brandishing a flag while perched on team-mate Adrian’s shoulders.
Sevilla initially went ahead with a goal from Ruben Vargas at the 17-minute mark, but Betis fought back with strikes from Johnny and Cucho Hernandez – the latter set up by Isco – meaning they led just before the break.
Betis held firm at the Benito Villamarin to chalk up their fourth straight victory and push their unbeaten streak to seven matches. Since his loan move from United to Spain in January, Antony – who failed to impress at Old Trafford – has been lauded for his performances.
However, Betis face an uphill battle to make Antony’s move permanent this summer due to his hefty valuation and salary demands, while his contract with United still runs until 2027.
Speculation about another loan spell has been rife, yet it’s unclear if United – who paid Ajax £82m to sign him in 2022 – will demand a sale to finance Ruben Amorim’s squad overhaul, reports the Express.
“We’ll have to crowdfund to bring him back for another year,” Isco said following his decisive contribution to the Seville derby triumph.
“His humility and willingness to lend a hand have caught us all off guard. Since his arrival, there’s been a noticeable shift, and we must continue to do things correctly.”
This isn’t the first time Isco has expressed his surprise at Antony’s impressive form in Spain, following a challenging two-and-a-half years at United.
In early March, the 32-year-old said: “He is getting back to enjoying his football. He needed a change of air, and Betis has the best air there is. He has surprised me on a personal level and as a footballer. I’m happy that a player of his level is here at Betis.”
Although Antony didn’t directly contribute to a goal against Sevilla, his presence had a significant impact on the match. He drew four fouls, created three scoring opportunities, and he won seven of his 11 duels.
Isco isn’t the only one singing Antony’s praises; the Spanish media have also been impressed. El Correa described him as a “rocket down the wing”, El Desmarque labelled him a “nuisance”, and El Pespunte raved about Antony’s work rate in Manuel Pellegrini’s team.
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