Manchester United winger Antony made an encouraging debut for Real Betis in their 2-2 draw against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday evening. The Brazilian, who recently joined the Spanish club on loan for the remainder of the season, played 72 minutes and was actively involved in his new team’s attacking play.
Despite his struggles to secure a regular starting spot at Old Trafford, Antony looked confident in his first appearance for Betis. He completed 83% of his 24 attempted passes and registered two key passes, showcasing his ability to contribute creatively. His performance earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award at the end of the match.
Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini expressed optimism about Antony’s role in the squad, emphasising that the winger does not need to rely solely on flashy skills to make an impact. According to Pellegrini, Antony’s effectiveness will come from maintaining consistency, making smart decisions, and delivering key moments such as assists and goals.
“I was talking to him before the game,” Pellegrini said. “A good player doesn’t have to constantly show off skills; he needs to play smart, limit mistakes, and make a few key contributions—a goal, a decisive pass, or a good cross. I think he was very involved today, especially in the second goal. He has only just arrived, but I believe he will add a lot to our team.”
Antony’s performance suggests he could play a significant role in Betis’ attack during his loan spell. His confidence on the ball and ability to link up with teammates could provide an added spark for the La Liga side as they push for a strong finish to the season.
The Brazilian winger is expected to feature again when Real Betis takes on Celta Vigo on Saturday. With a positive debut under his belt and Pellegrini’s confidence in his abilities, Antony has a chance to revitalise his form and prove his worth before returning to Manchester United.
