'Forgotten how to spin!' - 'Ghost' Antony returns to Man Utd-self with nightmare Real Betis performance in Conference League loss to Chelsea

Betis began the final with confidence and control, taking a deserved 1-0 lead into half-time. However, what followed was a second-half collapse that left fans stunned and furious. Chelsea sparked into life after the break and put four goals past the Spanish side in a devastating turnaround at the Wraclow Stadium.

Goals from Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Jackson, Jadon Sancho, and Moises Caicedo dismantled Manuel Pellegrini’s defensive plans in less than 45 minutes. What looked like a solid lead quickly became a night to forget for the Andalusian side, and particularly for United loanee Antony.

Antony had shown signs of resurgence since arriving in Spain. His performances had hinted at a return to form after a turbulent time at Old Trafford, as he notched up nine goals and five assists with Betis. But Wednesday night’s showing felt like a flashback to those darker days for the Brazilian. The winger looked out of sorts from the outset, struggling to create chances or link up with teammates. As Chelsea turned up the pressure, Antony appeared increasingly frustrated and disconnected. A confrontation with Fernandez further soured his evening, which also earned him a yellow card.

Antony’s underwhelming performance didn’t go unnoticed, with Betis supporters taking to social media to vent their disappointment.

@ruukayo_ wrote: "Antony back to default settings the second he comes up against a premier league opponent."

@Opresii ridiculed: "Antony is only good when nobody is watching him play." He continued his attack and wrote: "It seems the Man United version of Antony is even better than this one… he has even forgotten how to spin."

Whereas, @JosipFCB93 commented: "If you told me Antony has been on the pitch since 1st minute I would have to double check. He's been ghosting."

@FootyIsThe0ne wrote: "Antony vs Cucurella is well and truly the stoppable force meeting the movable object."

In stark contrast to Antony’s poor showing, Sancho - another United loanee - seized the moment with an outstanding performance. He was electric down the flank and capped off his evening with a superbly taken goal. What stood out, however, was Sancho’s sportsmanship. Despite being on opposite sides and delivering vastly different performances, Sancho made a point of consoling his fellow Red Devil at the final whistle.

Antony's loan spell was seen as a make-or-break opportunity to revive his career and stake a claim either at United or elsewhere. A decision regarding his long-term future will likely be made during talks with United's technical staff.