In a striking return to form, Manchester United's young Brazilian winger, Antony, currently on loan to Real Betis, finally found the back of the net in a La Liga fixture against Celta Vigo. His goal in the tenth minute of play marked a significant milestone, as it was his first league goal in 287 days. The excitement was palpable when Antony executed a calm, composed finish inside the box, bringing joy to the Betis fans and relief to himself.
Despite this promising start, Real Betis struggled to hold their lead. Even with a second goal tucked away by defender Diego Llorente, the team succumbed to a second-half resurgence by Celta Vigo, eventually losing the match 3-2. This loss was yet another frustration for Betis, as it marked their fifth game without a win in the last six encounters, trailing at the tenth position in the La Liga standings.
Antony's journey with Betis is more than just about scoring goals. The winger, who set back Manchester United a staggering £86 million in 2022, had been battling to justify the hefty price tag at Old Trafford where he managed just 12 goals across 95 appearances. His move to Betis, laden with a 'penalty clause' obligating him to make a certain number of appearances, sees the Spanish club contributing to 84% of his £200,000 weekly salary.
There remains hope and trust in his potential. Real Betis coach, Manuel Pellegrini, expressed optimism about Antony’s progress, acknowledging the player's renewed confidence and growing maturity. Pellegrini's supportive guidance seems to be rubbing off, as Antony secured Man of the Match honors for a second consecutive game despite the team's unfortunate defeat.
After the match, Antony was vocal about the need for a changed mindset, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus for the full 90 minutes to prevent lapses in concentration. His candid admission shows a level of insight crucial for his development and future contributions on the pitch. The loan is a strategic move aimed at reviving his career ahead of a stalwart return to Manchester United, where he remains contracted until 2027, with an optional extension to 2028.