 "Antony was sent packing away form Manchester United by Ruben Amorim. Image: Reuters")
Despite being sent on loan to Real Betis by Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, Antony has praised his former coach as a “very clever” tactician. The Brazilian footballer also hinted that his time at United is mostly up.
Antony praises United manager Amorim
Antony was loaned to Real Betis in the La Liga in the January transfer window after he failed to make a mark at Manchester United despite the club spending £85m ($113m) on the attacker in 2022. Nonetheless, Antony doesn’t hold any grudges against Amorim and labelled the Portuguese as a “very good coach” while sharing his future plans.
“I’ve worked with him for a short time, but he’s a very good coach. Very clever. Man. The Man United is going through a difficult time but he is a good coach. We had a good relationship, only I needed a new challenge. I wish you the greatest luck in the world for this season finale,” Antony told ESPN Brazil.
Media reports in Europe have suggested that Antony wants to continue playing for Betis next season. He has already scored four goals and made five assists for Betis in 16 games. The 25-year-old winger has also been a regular under coach Manuel Pellegrini.
Antony wants to stay at Betis
However, some reports have indicated that United have rejected Betis’ offers to extend Antony’s loan deal. United are reportedly asking for £30m ($40m). They had spent £85m ($113m) on Antony in 2022.
If Betis fail to match United’s expectations, then we may see Antony returning to Manchester next season.
Antony joined United from Ajax in 2022 as Erik ten Hag became the coach of the Red Devils. He played 82 matches in his first two seasons, scoring 11 goals and making five assists. However, the returns fell in the first half of the ongoing season as he scored just one goal in 14 matches.
In his interview with ESPN, Antony also spoke about Ten Hag’s influence on his career. The Dutchman coached Antony at Ajax as well.
“I’m so grateful to Erik ten Hag. He helped me a lot in the Netherlands and in the Ajax, but the opportunities did not arise in the way he expected. I don’t hold grieve feelings, it was a coach’s option. I am grateful to you for everything you have done for me and the conversations we have had.”