“More beautiful than Manchester” – Tearful Antony returns to Real Betis return | OneFootball

On the final day of the summer transfer window, Antony re-joined Real Betis from Manchester United on a permanent basis. The 25-year-old had been desperate to return to Andalusia, and although it had looked unlikely on more than one occasion, it came to fruition in the end.

And on Tuesday, Antony was presented as a Betis player for the second time, following his loan move last season. As per Diario AS, he could not contain his delight at returning to Los Verdiblancos.

“What a difference! Seville is more beautiful than Manchester. I’m finally here. I’ve spent more than 40 days in a hotel, it’s been very hard but everyone knew that I wanted to return to Betis. Now with more time, we have many things to do and to achieve. It has been difficult for me to sleep seeing so much affection from the Betis fans, there were people waiting at my house at 2 in the morning.

“For me affection is very important and not all the money is paid. Here I have a lot of feeling and affection, he was always my first choice and that’s why I waited until the last day to return to Betis. Now I’m here and happy in a city and a club that I love.”

Image via Richard Heathcote/Getty Images

Antony reflects on difficult summer at Man United

Antony was also asked about his difficult summer, which involved him training away from his Man United teammates due to being one of the first team outcasts. During these remarks, he broke down in tears.

“Only my family knows how difficult it was to be there. Training separately… But I knew this incredible moment was coming. Of course I was afraid that this would not happen in the end, but I waited because I had a lot of faith.”