In a stunning career turnaround, former Manchester United winger Antony has drawn comparisons to football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar following his permanent move to Spanish club Real Betis.
From Old Trafford disappointment to La Liga revival
The Brazilian international completed his £21.7 million transfer to Real Betis last summer after enduring what he described as "disrespectful" treatment during his final days at Manchester United. Antony originally joined the Red Devils in 2022 for an astonishing £82 million fee, making him the most expensive Eredivisie export in history and one of the Premier League's costliest signings.
Despite the massive investment, the 25-year-old struggled through two-and-a-half underwhelming seasons at Old Trafford before manager Ruben Amorim sanctioned his departure. Antony revealed the difficult circumstances surrounding his exit, including being placed in United's 'bomb squad' and forced to train separately from the first team for over 40 days while negotiations with Betis progressed.
Remarkable transformation in Spain
Since returning to La Liga, where he spent last season on loan, Antony has undergone a dramatic resurgence. The winger scored nine goals in the second half of last season and has continued his impressive form this term with six goals and two assists in just eleven appearances.
Real Betis defender Marc Bartra believes football fans are now witnessing the true potential of the Brazilian international. "It's a style of football that suits him very well," Bartra explained to Mundobetis. "That's why we're seeing the real Antony again, even an improved Antony."
High praise from teammates
Bartra didn't hold back in his assessment of Antony's qualities, drawing remarkable parallels with two of football's biggest stars. "The first day I spoke with him, I already saw his mentality, with that quality and that Brazilian talent," the defender revealed.
"I always say he's a mix between Neymar and Cristiano. He has the same mentality as Cristiano, always striving for more and being very focused on the game." This comparison places Antony in elite company, given Ronaldo's status as a five-time Ballon d'Or winner with nearly 1,000 career goals, while Neymar remains one of the most gifted players of his generation.
Despite his difficult departure from Manchester, Antony expressed gratitude toward his former club while emphasising the importance of personal happiness over financial considerations. "I feel like I was disrespected, but that's not the point," he explained. "I don't want to create controversy, that's life. I'm feel grateful towards the club. There were bad times, but also good times with two titles."
The Brazilian international added that his decision to join Betis permanently was driven by family happiness rather than money, noting that his children and wife have settled well in Seville. Real Betis currently sit fifth in La Liga as they prepare to face Girona following the international break.
