Antony has opened up on two Manchester United decisions he felt were disrespectful, despite still being grateful to the club.
Antony sealed a deadline-day move to Real Betis after impressing during a six-month loan spell in Seville, where he appeared to rediscover his form following a turbulent period at Manchester United.
Having been part of Rúben Amorim’s group of outcasts on his return to Old Trafford, Antony was left out of United’s pre-season tour of the United States.
Although he attracted strong interest from clubs such as Bayern Munich, Antony made it clear that his priority was to remain with Betis.
After a long-running saga, which even saw Betis briefly announce they had withdrawn their offer, the two clubs finally struck a deal worth £21.7 million plus a 50% sell-on clause.
In his first appearance against English opposition since leaving United, Antony scored and provided an assist in Betis’ 2-2 Europa League draw with Nottingham Forest.
Antony felt United were disrespectful in the summer
Antony and the four other outcasts at the club were not allowed to train at Carrington during their remaining months at Old Trafford. Still, Antony has also called this out, alongside having to live in a hotel, as actions that made him feel “disrespected” by United.
In a new interview with Spanish radio station Onda Cero, Antony opened up for the first time about just how hurt and offended he felt by United’s conduct in his final days at the club.
“They were very tough months in England, more than 40 days in a hotel, training separately… I feel like I was disrespected, but that’s not the point,” Antony explained to Spanish radio station Onda Cero.
It must be noted by Sport Witness have reported that Antony’s decision to live in a hotel was his decision, rather than one forced upon him by the club. Still, he also explained he feels grateful for his time at United.
“I don’t want to create controversy; that’s life. I’m feeling grateful towards the club. There were bad times, but also good times with two titles.
“My family travelled to Seville four or five days before the deal was finalised; they had rented the house. I had already spoken to them, and my heart was telling me to return to Betis.”
Antony happy with his choice to sign for Betis
With other clubs, such as Bayern and Atletico Madrid, as well as Saudi Pro League sides, interested in the winger, many were surprised that he was so determined to re-sign with Betis. However, Antony explained that his decision was also guided by what was best for his family.
“I always look at happiness first, and I was very happy here at Betis,’ he added. “I know my children and my wife are happy here. Before making the decision, I spoke with them all.
‘”t’s an incredible city and the people, too. Not just the fans, but everyone. I looked at my happiness first, because I know that when I’m happy, things turn out well. Money is important, but happiness is much more important.”
Talking about his new manager, Manuel Pellegrini, Antony only had praise to give. “He’s a great coach. We all know the history he has; it’s incredible.
“Working with him makes me very happy because of the person he is, not just with me but with all the players. The issue of the renewal is between the club and Pellegrini. I always want to spend more time with Pellegrini. But it’s their decision. I hope things turn out well.”
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