Brazilian winger Antony has revealed his feelings of being treated with a "lack of respect" and "rudeness" during his tumultuous departure from Manchester United, before his eventual transfer to Real Betis. The player opened up about his final months at Old Trafford, sharing his perspective on off-field issues and how they impacted his performance and mental state.
Key Takeaways
- Antony says he experienced a "lack of respect" and "rudeness" during his exit from Manchester United.
- The Brazilian was isolated from the first team and excluded from preseason activities.
- Antony takes some responsibility for his struggles at United but highlights the impact of off-field matters.
- The winger has since transferred to Real Betis where he feels rejuvenated.
Antony’s Manchester United Stint: High Hopes, Disappointment
Antony joined Manchester United from Ajax in 2022 for a hefty fee, bringing with him high expectations. However, the forward struggled to live up to his billing at Old Trafford and eventually found himself out of the main squad, training separately under manager Ruben Amorim.
During his final weeks, Antony was reportedly part of a group of players deemed surplus to requirement. Speaking in a recent interview, he shared that basic courtesies were lacking, stating, "not even a good morning or good afternoon." This environment, according to Antony, accentuated his sense of isolation.
Off-Field Factors and Taking Responsibility
While Antony was clear about the challenging atmosphere at Manchester United, he also accepted his share of responsibility for not meeting expectations on the field. He cited personal and off-field issues as key factors behind his dip in form.
"I am a man who accepts my responsibilities. I know my potential, I know my qualities… I also take responsibility for it not working out, for not performing as I wanted."
Despite these regrets, he reflects on the difficult chapter as an essential period for personal growth and understanding his own resilience in the face of adversity.
Rejuvenation at Real Betis
After spending the second half of last season on loan at Real Betis, Antony secured a permanent move for a reported €22 million. In Spain, the winger has already shown signs of renewal, playing a major role for Betis and delighting supporters with strong performances—including a recent standout match in the Europa League.
Antony now focuses on his life in Spain, keen to close the Manchester United chapter. He emphasizes the importance of moving forward and making a positive impact at his new club.
What This Means for Manchester United
Antony’s comments shine a light on the internal challenges faced by players leaving big clubs—both in terms of professional treatment and personal wellbeing. As Manchester United continues to reshape its roster, Antony’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of player management beyond the pitch.
References
- Antony: Rudeness, lack of respect from Man United during exit, ESPN United Kingdom.
- Antony claims he was treated with ‘lack of respect and rudeness’ at Man Utd, Bucks Free Press.