Antony has opened up on his return to Manchester United this summer following a wildly successful loan move to La Liga outfit Real Betis.
Antony’s six-month loan move to Real Betis could not have gone better following a torrid two and a half seasons at Manchester United.
After being signed for £85 million by former boss Erik ten Hag, Antony failed to perform and lost his place following Rúben Amorim’s arrival. He was then sent on loan to Betis in the January transfer window, with little expectation.
However, after a series of wonderful goals and stunning performances, the Brazilian has now been recalled to his national side. He scored nine goals and provided five assists in 26 appearances under Manuel Pellegrini.
But, after losing the Europa Conference League final against Chelsea, Antony will return to United this summer, with little certainty surrounding his future.
Antony breaks silence on United return
Although Betis’ players and board have been very public in their desire to keep Antony at the Estadio Benito Villamarín, initial indications suggest that the Spanish side will not be able to afford his transfer fee, with United reportedly seeking around £35 million.
Speaking to CBS Sports, Antony said: “I don’t know what will happen in the future, only God knows.
“My work is playing, and I’m doing that well. I have a lot of affection for Betis, for everyone, but I have a contract with Man United, and I don’t know what’s going to happen; only they know what’s happening.
“Now I will go to the national team, and then on holiday; then we will see what happens in the future. I’m very happy here, everyone knows that. I went to sleep and I woke up happy, but I have a contract and I don’t know what’s going to happen.”
United will not be sentimental with their sales this summer
The current financial restraints United find themselves tangled within mean the club will be selling whichever players they choose to the highest bidder this summer.
As well as Antony, both Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho are also sure-fire sales, while Alejandro Garnacho has been told he can find a new club, and Rasmus Højlund’s future hangs in the balance.
Although Antony may be hoping United will strike a deal that sees him re-sign with Real Betis on loan or for a discounted fee, United will likely wait until a club comes close to matching his £35 million price tag, with Atletico Madrid also rumoured to be interested.
United will be hoping the above-mentioned winger quartet can raise over £150 million in sales this summer amid their desire to completely overhaul Amorim’s current squad options.
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