'We need to crowdfund!' - Antony urged to stay at Real Betis by Isco as Man Utd flop hints he has no intention of returning to Old Trafford

Few knew what to expect from Antony when he moved to Spain from Manchester United during the winter transfer window. He had flopped at Old Trafford on the back of an £85 million ($110m) move from Ajax, with end product in short supply.

He has flourished in La Liga, delivering an impressive haul of goals and assists, and savoured derby glory against arch-rivals Sevilla in his latest outing. Betis are now hoping that Antony’s services can be retained beyond the end of his initial loan spell.

Club colleague Isco told DAZN after seeing the South American catch the eye again during a 2-1 victory over Andalusian foes Sevilla: “We need to crowdfund to see if we can bring him back for another year. He's surprised us all with his humility and his desire to help.”

Antony repaid that compliment when saying of a team-mate who has enjoyed his own renaissance since severing ties with Real Madrid: “Playing with Isco, he's a genius. When you understand how things are done, things come easier. He's an incredible player and person.”

Antony is loving his time with Betis and went on to say of rediscovering a spark that had started to fizzle out in England: “I feel happier and more content when I found myself, and I found myself here. I'm very grateful for everyone's affection, for the players... I'm very happy here, my focus is on Betis, I'm enjoying the city, the club, and everything every day, and I'm very happy.”

United still have the 25-year-old winger tied to a contract through to 2027, so have some big decisions to make this summer. While Betis are eager to put another loan agreement in place, leading clubs from across Europe – including German giants Bayern Munich – are said to be mulling over approaches for Antony.