Manchester United outcast Antony is attracting interest from Atletico Madrid and Real Betis
This summer transfer window says goodbye to many of our players, and one of the most likely departures is Antony‘s. The Brazilian arrived at Old Trafford as an explosive prospect, an electric winger capable of breaking any defensive line. He cost a fortune, more than €85 million, but two years later, his impact has been uneven. At times, the 25-year-old seemed lost wearing the United jersey. However, that changed in the second half of last season, when Real Betis rescued him with a loan that suited him well. Now he is once again being a strong candidate outside of Manchester, and this time, it could be permanent.
Manchester United are undergoing a difficult transition. After weak seasons and results that fall far short of expectations, the club are looking to rebuild. The arrival of Rúben Amorim signals the beginning of a new era. Old signings are becoming redundant. The team want to regain their identity, energy, and consistency. Antony, enthusiastically signed by Ten Hag, never managed to justify his price tag. Between injuries, erratic decisions, and a lack of attacking presence, his place has been called into question. Now, with Amorim in charge, he doesn’t seem to have a place in the new plan.
Rumours, Spanish interest, and the need to sell
According to TEAMtalk, Atlético de Madrid have placed Antony on their shortlist to reinforce the flanks. Simeone is looking for a winger who fits into his system, who attacks aggressively and also works defensively. Betis also want him back, after the Brazilian scored nine goals and assisted five times in just 26 games. His strong final stretch of the previous season revived his chances in the summer transfer window to an extent, but while Betis can only think about a loan, Atleti seem better positioned.
Antony still has interesting traits. He is fast, has a powerful left foot, and if he is in form, he can decide games. The problem has always been the Brazilian’s inconsistency. Sometimes he disappears from the game, but his time at Villamarín showed that he still has that spark. Simeone sees the 25-year-old as a possible partner to surround Julián Álvarez. The question is whether United will secure an outright sale or will have to settle for another loan.
A goodbye that could benefit everyone
We are not one of those who hate Antony. We think he has talent, but football doesn’t wait, and in Manchester, you can’t give away more time. Amorim needs players who fit his vision, who contribute from day one. Antony doesn’t seem like that kind of player for this new season. Therefore, if a serious offer comes along, it’s better to let him go. If Atlético pay around £30 million, then we see it as a good idea to offload him. United were eyeing £50m for him, but no one is going to pay that amount in the current scenario. By settling for £30 million, you recoup some of the investment, lower salaries, and free up space for other, more useful players.
Betis deserve respect, but they don’t have the money. Atleti do have it and play in the Champions League. Antony could fit in there if Simeone polishes him. For us, it represents a smart exit, and that way, everyone wins. Although nothing is certain yet, this summer seems to mark the end of his time at Old Trafford, and honestly, we don’t think that’s a bad idea.