Brazilian right winger Antony has flopped completely for Manchester United and really blossomed at Real Betis in La Liga.
From flop to hero in record time!
Antony’s future has become one of the most discussed topics in this summer’s transfer market. Three powerful clubs have shown interest in the Brazilian winger: Al Nassr from Saudi Arabia, as well as the historic clubs Botafogo and São Paulo from Brazil. But the Manchester United player has made it clear that he currently wants to establish himself in Europe, preferably for Real Betis, but it is not at all certain that they can afford it.
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Although Botafogo tried an informal approach to assess whether he was willing to return to Brasileirao, the player’s response was negative. The 25-year-old striker, who came up through the youth department of São Paulo, believes it is not yet time to return to his home country. His attitude is clear: he wants to regain his place in European football after a variable season.
Al Nassr, Botafogo and São Paulo fight for Antony
The Tricolor club (São Paulo) is still monitoring his situation, but not necessarily with the intention of bringing him back. Any international transfer for Antony will bring them revenue through FIFA’s solidarity mechanism. At the same time, Al Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo and coached by Jorge Jesus, have intensified their interest and will be willing to make a significant offer of around £50 million – the amount Manchester United are demanding.
Antony’s time at United has not lived up to expectations following his arrival from Ajax in 2022 for around €95 million. Despite some flashes of quality, he has not been able to secure a permanent place in the starting line-up. His loan spell at Betis last season didn’t give him regular playing time either.
Now, while the English club is looking to trim its squad, Antony is exploring options to revive his career – but with a strong intention of remaining in top European football. For now, his return to Brazil will have to wait.
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