When Antony left Manchester United for Real Betis in the January transfer window, few expected an immediate impact. After struggling for form and minutes at Old Trafford, the Brazilian winger was seen as surplus to requirements. However, his recent performances in La Liga suggest that United may have been too quick to write him off.
Since his arrival in Seville, Antony has wasted no time in making his mark. Named man of the match in back-to-back games, he has quickly become a key figure in Manuel Pellegrini’s squad. His standout moment came against Celta Vigo, where he opened the scoring with a stunning finish that showcased the technical brilliance United once paid big money for. A deft first touch, a composed shift onto his left foot, and a clinical strike past the goalkeeper served as a reminder of what he’s capable of when given the right platform.
Despite Betis ultimately squandering their lead and suffering a disappointing 3-2 defeat, Antony’s individual brilliance could not be ignored. His hunger, flair, and creativity were on full display—qualities that had seemingly been lost in his turbulent spell at United.
Antony’s resurgence at Betis raises an important question: did Manchester United give up on him too soon? While his time in the Premier League has been frustrating, marred by inconsistent performances and off-field controversies, his early displays in Spain suggest he still possesses the talent that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting young wingers.
His post-match comments after the loss to Celta Vigo reflected both his ambition and frustration. Rather than celebrating his individual performance, Antony focused on the team’s mentality, calling for a stronger approach throughout the full 90 minutes. His words hinted at a newfound maturity, a realization that talent alone isn’t enough to thrive at the highest level.
United, who have struggled to find consistency on the right wing, might be watching his progress with mixed emotions. A player they deemed unfit to contribute is now excelling in a competitive league, proving that he still has plenty to offer. If he continues on this trajectory, his loan spell could turn into an unwanted wake-up call for the Red Devils.
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