'I know how talented I am' - Man Utd flop Antony claims he turned down 'better offers' before Real Betis transfer

Having struggled on the back of a big-money transfer to Old Trafford, the Brazilian forward embraced a fresh start in January 2025. The decision was taken to head for La Liga, with several opportunities being presented to the 25-year-old.

Antony is convinced that he made the right choice in moving to Andalusia, with seven goals being recorded for Betis so far - including a couple of stunning strikes. The South American is playing with a smile on his face once more.

Antony has told Universo Valdano on Movistar+ of pushing for a switch to Betis when supposedly more appealing proposals were on the table: “I go to bed here and wake up smiling. I always say that the best decision I've ever made was coming to Betis.

“I'm happy, and when I'm happy, things go well. For me, of course, it's important to score goals and provide assists, but being happy is even more important. I found myself here, I'm very happy here, and things are going very well.

“The future? It's very early; I don't know what's going to happen, but I'm very happy here. I've found myself enjoying football. It's crazy right now, although I know how talented I am, so I prioritised going where I knew I'd be happy, even though I had better offers.”

Antony’s form has attracted admiring glances from across Europe, while he is hoping to be selected in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. He added on that challenge: “There are great players like Vinícius, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Savinho... I have a lot of respect for them. There have always been very good wingers in Brazil. Wearing the national team jersey is crazy.”

Atletico Madrid are the latest side to have been linked with a summer approach for Antony, but Premier League giants United are said to be demanding around €40 million (£34m/$45m) from any sale and that may lead to another loan agreement being put in place.