Few January loans are going as well as Antony at Real Betis.
After two difficult years at Manchester United, Antony was sent on loan to Real Betis.
The objective was for Antony to get back to playing regular football as well as trying to increase his valuation in the market.
Ultimately, Antony failed to impress two managers during his time at United. Erik ten Hag, who bought him from Ajax, showed lots of faith in the Brazilian but was never repaid in performances.
Chances in United’s first team lessened after Ruben Amorim’s arrival in November and it was clear a decision had to be made on the winger’s future.
Manuel Pellegrini confused by Antony’s struggles at Manchester United
Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini has admitted he’s worked hard with Antony to get the best out of the Brazil international after a disappointing stint at United.
The former Manchester City boss was quoted from his press conference by Estadio Deportivo when Antony was among the hot topics of conversation.
Pellegrini also hailed Antony’s character.
“The most important thing has been his attitude and his self-criticism,” Pellegrini said.
“If they paid that much money for him it is because he is a player of a great level, who for reasons unknown to me was not able to perform as expected at Manchester United.
“It is a revenge on himself to show that he is a much more mature player. I have spoken a lot with him to make him calm, without wanting to show great things, but to keep it simple.
“He is a great player who does important things for the team, and I hope he continues at that level until the end of the season because he will help us a lot.”
Antony’s bright start in Spain has seen him register four goal contributions in as many games for Betis, proving to be Pellegrini’s MVP since his arrival in late January.
Meanwhile, at United, Antony managed 12 goals and five assists in 96 games. The numbers hardly compare.
Antony tipped to continue form for Real Betis
Antony is enjoying life at Betis, perhaps more than he did in Manchester, with the weather one of several factors that has made it easier for him to adapt to his new surroundings, as per AS.
It helps that Pellegrini has lots of faith in the player.
But it’s not hard to see why when you look at his impressive record since joining Real Betis.
| Games | Goals | Assists |
| 4 | 3 | 1 |
Betis still have a lot to play for this season and they will be hoping their latest loanee edition can give them something to celebrate at the end of the season.
From United’s perspective, it’s a boost to see an uplift in Antony, even if it feels like a slap in the face that he was unable to replicate this level of performance at Old Trafford.
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