Ruben Amorim responds to Antony’s form for Real Betis, says he ‘will struggle’ due to key factor

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Manchester United sent several players on loan in January, with two in particular shining at their new clubs.

With Ruben Amorim’s arrival, several players’ time at Manchester United drew to a temporary close as they simply weren’t in his plans.

Antony failed to convince Amorim of his merits and so his loan exit looked likely from early on. The Brazilian will be delighted he made the move to Real Betis, with Antony nominated for La Liga player of the month award.

Marcus Rashford has also caught the eye for Aston Villa, but it is Antony who has really shocked fans and the media.

Manchester United first-team players out on loan

Having struggled in his two years on English soil, Antony is a different player in Spain, getting greatest of all-time claims from the Real Betis account.

Now, Amorim has shed light onto the reason Antony is performing elsewhere.

• READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Man Utd’s head coach – Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim suggests the reason behind Antony shining in Spain

Since arriving in Spain, Antony has made six appearances with three goals and two assists, a contribution rate far beyond what he ever showed at United.

Due to this and also the injury to Amad Diallo, the decision to let Antony leave on loan was criticised.

However, speaking to TNT Sports and Rio Ferdinand this week, Amorim was quizzed over the decision and his reaction to Antony’s form.

“When you play against any team in England, the physicality is there”, the United head coach explained. “If you don’t have physicality, you will struggle a lot.”

“Antony is so much better now in Spain. It’s [because of] a lot of factors but I guarantee you it’s physicality.”

Antony has so much more time and space in La Liga, which is probably a big reason behind his form as he is playing very similarly to how he was at United.

• READ: Who is Antony? Inside the life of Manchester United’s big money Brazilian winger

Manchester United will be hoping Antony’s form continues

United took a big risk in sending Antony on loan with no obligation to buy, because if he flopped then it would be impossible to sell next summer.

Antony’s immense form therefore will be incredibly well perceived in Manchester, as it makes the chances of a permanent move for a healthy fee more likely.

Betis have already indicated a desire to sign Antony permanently, while the Brazilian winger has suggested that he wouldn’t be opposed to it, after praising the Betis fanbase and club for how they’ve helped him settle.

With Antony looking unbeatable in the green and white of Betis, it would be crazy if they didn’t try to sign him – obviously dependent on the price tag.

If United could recoup £25m or so for Antony it would be a phenomenal deal and help with the impending rebuild this summer.