Man Utd outcast scores as Antony continues to shine in Spain
February 9, 2025Manchester United loanee Antony scored his first goal for Real Betis during their 3-2 defeat against Celta Vigo in a LaLiga match on Saturday. The Brazilian winger, currently on loan to the Spanish club, aims to rejuvenate his career after a disappointing stint at Old Trafford.
In the tenth minute of the game, Antony netted a skillful goal from inside the box, opening the scoring for Betis. This performance earned him his second consecutive Man of the Match award since joining the club, with his first accolade received during his debut against Athletic Bilbao.
The goal marked Antony’s first league goal in 287 days, with his previous league strike occurring for Manchester United against Burnley on April 27, 2024.
Despite Antony’s impressive performance, Real Betis ultimately succumbed to a defeat, surrendering a two-goal lead. Fran Beltran narrowed the margin for Celta Vigo in the 63rd minute, followed by an equalizer from Javi Rodriguez. Williot Swedberg then secured the victory for Celta Vigo, scoring the winning goal three minutes before the final whistle.
As of now, Real Betis holds the tenth position in LaLiga, accumulating 29 points from 23 matches. Antony joined Manchester United in the summer of 2022 for a staggering £86 million transfer fee from Ajax, but struggled to live up to expectations under manager Erik ten Hag.
In 96 appearances across all competitions for Manchester United, Antony managed to score only 12 goals. Seeking a fresh start, he was given the opportunity to join Real Betis on loan in Seville.
Following his move to Spain, Antony has quickly rediscovered his goal-scoring form, matching his league goal tally from his final two seasons at Manchester United in just two games for Betis.
His last goal for Manchester United came in September during a Carabao Cup match against Barnsley. Real Betis will next face Gent in an away fixture on Thursday, as part of the Europa Conference League play-off round.
