Revenge mission: ultimate flop silences the doubters | OneFootball

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Multi-million euro transfer flops, a historically bad season, and a final lost against chronic losers. Manchester United was so miserable this season that even the situation at FC Schalke 04 looked visionary by comparison. But as if all that wasn’t bad enough, tonight could see perhaps the biggest flop in football history complete his revenge mission against the Red Devils.

When Antony signed for Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, expectations were sky-high. The task for the second most expensive signing in the club’s history: shoot United back to the top—no, to dazzle! The record two and a half years later: 95 million euros spent, 17 goal involvements in 96 games, and countless mocking memes.

For the sensitive Brazilian, these were dark times, just as they were for his employer. “I didn’t even have the strength to play with my son anymore. At times, I didn’t eat for days and locked myself in my room,” the 25-year-old recently revealed in tears to ‘TNT Sports Brasil’.

No one needs to feel sorry for a multimillionaire who gets paid to play football. But even the most cold-hearted must admit that a healthy mind is a decisive factor for a successful professional athlete. Antony is the best proof of that.

After another disappointing start to the season, United loaned the winger to Betis Sevilla in the winter. Master tactician Manuel Pellegrini welcomed him with open arms and is rebuilding the loanee’s confidence. “He tells me the most important thing is to be happy. He lets me go into games calm and confident,” Antony describes the effective care of his mentor on the sidelines.

Sportingly, things immediately improved. In three of his first four games for the Béticos, the 16-time Brazil international found the net. In total, he can currently boast 14 goal involvements in 25 games. Things are going especially well in the Conference League: four goals and three assists in eight games. His exceptional class has also begun to shine through more frequently again.

Pinpoint curlers into the top corner to win games or three goal involvements in the UECL semi-final against Fiorentina: In recent weeks, Antony has proven that he can make the difference in a positive way. He was driven by extra motivation. “He wanted revenge at Betis,” Pellegrini explained before tonight’s final against Chelsea, “and in a certain way, he’s achieved that.”

The crowning moment of his revenge campaign is set for late Wednesday evening. He wouldn’t be the first title-winner this season to be chased out of the red part of Manchester. If even the Red Devils’ costly flops can still write a success story, is there still hope for Schalke?

📸 Octavio Passos - 2025 UEFA