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Real Betis Push to Extend Antony Loan Amid Manchester United Uncertainty

Real Betis are keen to extend their association with Antony for another season, following an impressive turnaround for the Brazilian winger in Spain. As reported by The Telegraph, Betis are “preparing a season-long loan offer to Manchester United” after Antony’s strong performances lifted them into a Champions League position.

The £82 million signing from Ajax, whose Old Trafford career faltered, has rediscovered form under Manuel Pellegrini, becoming a fan favourite at Estadio Benito Villamarín.

Antony’s Revival in Spain

Since moving on loan in January, Antony has started every game for Betis, scoring five goals and significantly impacting their charge up La Liga. According to The Telegraph, Betis are not pursuing a permanent deal but want another loan spell for 2025/26, which “would be within their transfer budget and also keep Antony off United’s wage bill.”

This arrangement suits Betis, who covered 84% of Antony’s salary plus bonuses during his current loan. However, no purchase option was included in the original agreement, meaning Antony would need to report back to Carrington for pre-season unless terms are renegotiated.

Photo: IMAGO

Fans at Betis have embraced Antony’s flair and work rate. Veteran midfielder Isco even joked, “We have to crowdfund so he can stay at least another year. We’ve noticed a change since he arrived; he brings us a lot.” Comments like these highlight how seamlessly Antony has integrated into the Betis side.

Implications for Manchester United

For Manchester United and current manager Ruben Amorim, Antony’s situation presents an interesting dilemma. Amorim, who excluded Antony from his plans earlier this season, has focused on a high-intensity, tactically disciplined squad – attributes Antony struggled to consistently display in England.

United’s original investment in the winger, coupled with his resurgence abroad, complicates matters. On one hand, United could seek to rejuvenate Antony under Amorim’s guidance; on the other, another successful loan could boost his market value for a potential future sale.

Given the absence of a permanent transfer clause in the Betis deal, Manchester United maintain control over Antony’s destiny. But allowing Betis to shoulder his wages while he rebuilds his reputation might be seen as a win-win for all parties.

Betis’ European Ambitions

Betis currently sit fifth in La Liga and are well-positioned to secure Champions League football, provided they hold off competition from Villarreal and Celta Vigo. Playing Europe’s elite could further sharpen Antony’s skills and visibility.

His contributions have also helped Betis progress in the Europa Conference League, where a mouth-watering final against Chelsea remains a possibility. Few at Betis would deny that Antony’s dynamic performances have been pivotal in their late-season surge.

While United’s initial £82 million outlay looks unlikely to be recouped any time soon, allowing Antony to flourish at Betis, even temporarily, could help both clubs in the long run.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Manchester United supporter, it is bittersweet to see Antony thriving away from Old Trafford. There’s no denying the lad’s talent – we saw glimpses of it during his early days under Erik ten Hag. Yet, his time at United was marred by inconsistency, off-field distractions, and an inability to adapt to the Premier League’s physicality.

With Ruben Amorim now at the helm, there is a clear shift towards hardworking, tactically astute players. Antony’s flair was never in question, but his decision-making, defensive contribution, and work rate were areas of concern. Amorim’s decision to move him out was probably necessary for squad harmony and tactical clarity.

Still, it’s frustrating. United fans crave creativity and flair, and when Antony is on form, he brings exactly that. Watching him light up La Liga with Betis feels like a missed opportunity, but perhaps a full season under Pellegrini, with Champions League football, could be the final polish Antony needs.

The key now is patience and smart business. If Betis can cover his wages again and Antony keeps progressing, his market value will rise. Then, United can either reintegrate him as a more complete player – or cash in at a more favourable price.

For now, it’s best for all involved that Antony stays in Spain, builds his confidence, and shows the world the player we all hoped he would become at Old Trafford.