A Blazing Start in Spain
Brazilian winger Antony has been on fire since his loan move to Real Betis in January, scoring three goals in his last three games for the Andalusian club. This prolific form stands in stark contrast to his performance at Manchester United, where he struggled to find his footing. The 24-year-old’s confidence seemed to wane during his time at Old Trafford, and he managed to net only once in 14 matches across all competitions. Despite the initial setbacks, Betis has provided him with the perfect environment to rediscover his form and self-assurance.
United’s Role Questioned
Antony’s struggles at Manchester United have led to some criticisms and speculations about the club’s role in his poor form. Many pundits and fans have suggested that the Red Devils did not offer the right support or tactical framework for the Brazilian to succeed in the Premier League. However, not everyone agrees with this narrative. Former Premier League player and pundit Mario Melchiot believes that Antony’s issues were primarily self-inflicted, rather than a result of the club’s shortcomings.
Melchiot’s Perspective
In an interview with ESPN FC, Melchiot shared his insights on Antony’s performance. "I think Antony took the Premier League like the Eredivisie and should have taken it out of his head," he explained. "If he had taken it out of his head, he would have been way better off, but because of what he is doing now in Spain, scoring goals, and being really comfortable, you cannot say that. You could see he could not handle the pressure coming towards him, and that is why he looked like a player that was not ready for the Premier League." Melchiot’s comments highlight the significant mental and physical demands of the Premier League, which some players, even those with impressive pedigrees, can find overwhelming.
Optimism for United’s Future
Despite Antony’s departure, there is a silver lining for Manchester United. The club will be monitoring his form closely, hoping that his impressive performances with Betis will make it easier to find a suitable buyer this summer. The left-footed winger’s current success in Spain is a positive indicator, and it could potentially help United recoup some of the £86 million they paid Ajax for him in 2022. Although it is unlikely they will recover the full amount, any transfer fee received can be reinvested in strengthening the squad, which is crucial for their long-term ambitions.
Tactical Mismatch and Squad Balance
Antony’s loan move to Betis was partly due to his incompatibility with the 3-4-2-1 system favored by interim manager Ruben Amorim. This tactical mismatch has further solidified the decision that Antony is unlikely to return to United. However, his absence will also have a positive impact on the club’s financial health. Antony’s departure will reduce the club’s wage bill, which is essential for compliance with the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). These rules are designed to ensure financial stability and sustainability, and reducing high salaries can ease the burden on the club’s finances.
Moving Forward
For now, Antony is enjoying a resurgence of form and confidence at Real Betis. His impressive displays have not only made fans and pundits take notice but have also shown that he has the potential to thrive in a different environment. Manchester United will continue to focus on building a squad that aligns with their tactical and financial goals, while also hoping for the best for Antony in his continued career. The club’s future plans are clear, and they are looking to turn the page on his Manchester chapter, aiming to secure a smoother and more successful transition for both the player and the team.
