Manchester United’s Antony has been on loan at Real Betis since the winter market and is enjoying life in Spain.
The 25-year-old already played over 1,000 minutes for the La Liga club, being much more prominent than he was at Manchester United. He’s managed four goals and four assists from 13 games so far.
On Monday, Real Betis sporting director Manu Fajardo stated his side will do everything they can to retain the Manchester United man beyond this season.
Ramón Alarcón, the Andalusian club’s CEO, has been speaking to Canal Sur Radio, and Estadio Deportivo cover his comments on the winger.
He insists Real Betis’ chances of retaining Antony have improved when compared to what it was when the Brazilian arrived in January. The CEO remains optimistic of reaching an agreement with the Red Devils to extend the former Ajax man’s stay.
“When we talked about bringing him in January, it was a more remote possibility than the one we have now [of being able to keep him],” he said.
“Manchester United and the player have realised Betis is a great place for him to develop his football. Today, I see a greater likelihood that he will stay.
“There’s a World Cup in 2026, and the English club want him to be revalued. It’ll be difficult, but I’m more optimistic than I was in January. I’m moderately optimistic.”
Manuel Pellegrini’s side improved their attack by signing Cucho Hernández from Columbus Crew in January.
The Real Betis CEO claims the sporting leaders’ priority was to sign the Colombian and also highlighted Antony’s efforts to join them.
“Antony had better offers, but we convinced Manchester United and the player to see Betis as the ideal place,” Alarcón explained.
“When Antony arrived, there was criticism regarding his salary and the total cost, but the sports committee was very excited even though we read that he wasn’t raising any expectations. Then we saw that the goal was lacking, and for the technical secretariat, ‘Cucho’ was at the top of the list.
“We waited until the final hours, and once again the player did his part. It was essential for us to maintain a good atmosphere within the group so that the players could choose us on equal terms with other clubs.”
Real Betis haven’t secured a buying option and have to negotiate with Manchester United for Antony.
