Manchester United winger Antony looks set to leave Old Trafford this summer as both Italian side Como and Spanish club Real Betis pursue a permanent deal for the Brazilian. The 25-year-old is desperate to end a disappointing and turbulent spell in Manchester and reignite his career following a successful loan stint at Betis.
Signed from Ajax in 2022 for a staggering £86 million, Antony was once seen as a key piece of United’s future. However, the move has not gone to plan. In 96 appearances across all competitions, the winger has managed just 12 goals and five assists. Far from just a dip in form, Antony’s time at United has been marked by struggles on and off the pitch, including a candid admission that he considered retiring from football entirely during his time in Manchester.
“I started to doubt, even in myself,” Antony recently said. “But my family always told me to stay calm, because the process is painful and people must accept it. Today, I understand it better after everything I went through. I am grateful for that experience.”
United, under the leadership of new manager Ruben Amorim, appear ready to cut their losses. Antony, who remains under contract until 2027, has reportedly been informed he is not in the club’s plans going forward. Despite being given chances under both Amorim and former boss Erik ten Hag — his former coach at Ajax — Antony has failed to deliver consistent performances, often looking out of place in United’s evolving system.
His fortunes, however, changed dramatically during a loan spell at Real Betis in the second half of the 2024–25 season. In just five months, Antony scored 14 goals in 26 appearances and quickly became a fan favourite. His dynamic play, confidence, and goal-scoring form earned rave reviews from supporters, teammates, and even club legend Joaquín, who jokingly said he would “kidnap” the Brazilian to keep him at the club.
The loan spell also saw Antony regain his place in the Brazil national team, a testament to the resurgence in his form and confidence. Naturally, Antony is now keen on returning to Betis, where he feels most comfortable and appreciated.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Serie A side Como have made a recent attempt to secure the Brazilian’s signature. Managed by former Premier League star Cesc Fàbregas and featuring names like Dele Alli, Como are looking to strengthen their squad after finishing 10th in Serie A last season — their first campaign back in the top flight.
Como’s interest is serious, but Antony is reportedly holding out for a return to Betis, where he believes he can continue to thrive. Despite United opening the door for a permanent exit, no formal agreement has been reached between any of the involved clubs.
Interestingly, Antony would not be the first former United player to move to Como. Raphael Varane made the switch last year before being forced into early retirement due to injury. Como’s ambition, infrastructure, and growing appeal make them a credible destination for players seeking a reset — and Antony may yet consider the move if Betis cannot meet United’s financial demands.
Whether it is a return to Spain or a fresh start in Italy, one thing is clear: Antony’s chapter at Manchester United is nearing its end. With pre-season approaching and reports suggesting he may even be excluded from United’s U.S. tour, both the player and the club seem aligned in their desire to move on. All eyes now turn to Betis and Como — as the race to sign the Brazilian heats up.
Leave a Reply