Antony looks certain to stay at Real Betis. (Image: Getty)
Antony looks right at home at Real Betis - to the point where it would be a surprise not to see him join on a permanent basis from Manchester United this summer if the finances allow. The 25-year-old's successful loan spell in Andalusia marked its latest success on Sunday as he played a role in Betis' 2-1 derby victory against Sevilla in La Liga.
Antony won seven of his 11 duels, drew four fouls and created three chances to help Manuel Pelligrini's side win a fourth consecutive match. He has already won the hearts of the Betis supporters with his impactful performances since escaping his barren spell at United, registering eight goal involvements in 12 appearances. And his blossoming relationship with the fans and club was on full display during the powerful scenes after full-time at the Estadio Benito Villamarin.
The 60,000 in attendance sparked a raucous party of green and white after Johnny and Cucho Hernandez's goals completed a first-half comeback following Ruben Vargas' opener for the visitors.
Antony got particularly involved, climbing onto the shoulders of Betis goalkeeper Adrian before collecting a large flag from the stands.
The Brazilian winger frantically waved the flag as supporters performed their own version of 'Freed From Desire' in celebration.
Antony never settled at United after his eye-watering £86million switch from Ajax in 2022, following his Ajax manager Erik ten Hag to M16.
Antony on the shoulders of Adrian to whip up the crowd here is something to behold.
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He produced just 12 goals and five assists in 96 appearances for the Red Devils across his underwhelming two-and-a-half years in the club's ranks.
While he was averaging an involvement every 5.6 games at Old Trafford, Antony is contributing every 1.5 outings at Betis.
United head coach Ruben Amorim linked Antony's sudden improvement in Spain to La Liga's inferior physicality to the Premier League.
He said: "We talk about some players like Antony, who is much better in Spain. There are many factors. But I guarantee you it's linked to the physical aspect."
And it's not just the supporters who are keen for Antony to stay put in Seville. Betis captain Isco joked about ways the club could raise the funds to ensure he stays after Sunday's triumph.
"We have to do one of those crowdfunding campaigns to see if we can bring him in for at least one more year," Isco told DAZN.
"I'm happy to enjoy Antony. The truth is that he has surprised us all with the humility with which he arrived, with his desire to help, to contribute. The truth is that we are very happy.
"We have noticed a change since he arrived, and we are very happy for him, for the team, and eager to continue doing things well."
