Antony’s Fresh Start at Real Betis
Antony, the Brazilian winger who joined Real Betis on loan last month, has been making waves in LaLiga with his impressive form. Scoring three goals and providing one assist in his first four games, he has quickly become a fan favorite and a valuable asset for his new team. This burst of performance comes as a stark contrast to his time at Manchester United, where he struggled to find the same level of consistency and happiness. Antony’s newfound joy on and off the pitch is evident, and he attributes this to the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at Betis. "I’ve had a great time in Manchester too, I won two titles and I’m very grateful," he said in an interview with AS. However, he made it clear that the experience at Betis has been particularly fulfilling. "But when I say that I’ve found myself here, I’m happy, the people are like us in Brazil. The sun helps a lot. I’m very happy here. I wake up every day with a smile and that’s very important."
A Heartfelt Decision
The decision to join Real Betis was not taken lightly by Antony. He had several options but ultimately felt that Betis was the best place for him to rejuvenate his career. "I have a lot of friends who played here and they left me very calm so that I could sign here. I was sure in my heart that coming here was the best decision for me," he explained. The support and positive feedback from former teammates and friends who have played for Betis played a significant role in his choice. This move has not only allowed him to reconnect with his roots but also to find a new sense of purpose and belief in his abilities. "I hope to continue like this," Antony added, highlighting his ambition and commitment to his new club.
The Influence of New Teammates
One of the key factors in Antony’s rapid adjustment to Betis has been the presence of experienced and skilled teammates. He singled out former Real Madrid star Isco and ex-Tottenham midfielder Giovani Lo Celso as influential figures. "Isco is a great player, he has a lot of experience, he is a star and we all know it. He tells me that he is very happy for me," Antony said. The support and mentorship from such seasoned professionals have been invaluable. "Having him by my side is easier, you get along very well with him. With Lo Celso too. And with other team-mates, too," he added. The positive locker room environment and the camaraderie among the players have contributed significantly to his quick adaptation and success.
A Contrast in Atmosphere
The environment at Real Betis stands in sharp contrast to the one Antony experienced at Manchester United. At United, Antony often found himself under intense scrutiny and pressure, which affected his performances. The city’s weather and the club’s expectations may have contributed to his struggles, but at Betis, he has found a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The warm climate and the similarity to Brazilian culture have helped him feel at home. "The people are like us in Brazil. The sun helps a lot," he noted. This change in environment has clearly had a positive impact on his mental and physical well-being, allowing him to perform at his best.
Antony’s United Legacy
Despite his recent success at Betis, Antony’s time at Manchester United will be remembered by many as a disappointing stint. He joined the Red Devils for a whopping £85 million in 2022 and was expected to be a key player in Erik ten Hag’s rebuilding project. However, his performance did not meet the high expectations set by such a significant transfer fee. Antony leaves Manchester United with more yellow cards than goals, a statistic that underscores the challenges he faced at Old Trafford. "I was very grateful for the opportunity at Manchester United, but it’s clear that I didn’t perform at the level I had hoped," he admitted. The transfer is often cited as one of the worst in recent United history, a stark reminder of the club’s struggles in acquiring top talent.
Looking Forward at Betis
Antony is now fully focused on his future at Real Betis, where he aims to build a successful career and prove his worth. He is determined to continue his current form and contribute to the team’s success. "I want to make the most of this loan and show everyone what I can do," he said. His positive attitude and renewed confidence suggest that he is well on his way to achieving his goals. Betis, known for their welcoming culture and the quality of their squad, seems to have provided the perfect environment for Antony to thrive. As he continues to shine, the spotlight will shift from his past struggles to his promising future, and fans in Seville are already excited about what he can achieve in the coming months.
