Real Betis defender Romain Perraud has said Antony has added “magic” to their squad following his recent arrival from Manchester United.
The winger joined the Spanish club just under a fortnight ago, signing on loan for the remainder of the season after falling down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
The Brazilian made his debut for Betis on Sunday evening as they drew 2-2 with Athletic Bilbao. He started on the right-wing and stored 72 minutes under his belt.
Antony joined United from Ajax in September 2022 for a fee north of £85million after former Reds chief Erik ten Hag earmarked him as the solution to the club’s long-term struggles on the right flank. However, he has since struggled to make his mark in England, scoring just 12 goals in 96 appearances.
His switch to Betis has offered him the opportunity to try and revive his career after failing to start a single Premier League game for the Reds this season. And in the opinion of left-back Perraud, he has added something important to Betis’ squad.
“Antony is a very good teammate,” said Perraud. “He played a great debut – he provides a very important support for us. He has magic.”
The deal that saw Antony move to Spain last month does not include an option for Betis to sign him permanently at the end of the campaign. However, the hope is he will enjoy a successful period in Seville and increase his stock ahead of the summer transfer window.
Antony is under contract at United until 2027, meaning there is still time for them to try and recoup some of the £86.3m they paid for him less than three years ago. The expectation is that the club will attempt to sell him this coming summer.
