Manchester United offloads Antony to Betis for €25M on deadline day Por Beatriz
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Brazilian winger Antony, aged 25, has completed a permanent transfer from Manchester United to Real Betis in a deal worth up to €25 million (R$159 million). Finalized on September 1, 2025, the last day of the European transfer window, the agreement includes €22 million (R$140 million) fixed and €3 million (R$19 million) in performance-based add-ons, with United retaining 50% of the player’s economic rights. Following a successful loan spell at Betis last season, where he scored nine goals and provided five assists, Antony has now signed a five-year contract until June 2030. The move ends his challenging stint at Manchester United, where he failed to live up to expectations after a €95 million (R$556 million) transfer from Ajax in 2022. The transfer aligns with Betis’ ambition to strengthen their squad for La Liga and European competitions, while United aims to streamline their roster.
Antony’s departure from Manchester United comes amid a squad overhaul under manager Rúben Amorim, who did not see the Brazilian as part of his plans for the 2025/26 season. During his time at United, Antony faced criticism for his inconsistent performances, scoring just 12 goals in 96 appearances, and off-field issues, including domestic violence allegations in 2023, from which he was cleared. His loan at Betis last season revitalized his career, earning him a recall to the Brazilian national team in 2025 under coach Carlo Ancelotti.
- Antony’s Manchester United stats: 12 goals, 5 assists in 96 games.
- Betis loan performance: 9 goals, 5 assists in 26 matches.
- Transfer details: €22M fixed + €3M in bonuses.
- Contract duration: Until June 2030.
Details of the high-stakes transfer talks
The negotiations for Antony’s transfer were complex, spanning several weeks. Initially, Betis aimed to secure another loan, but Manchester United pushed for a permanent deal to offset the financial burden of their 2022 investment. Betis, needing to bolster their attack after losing Johnny Cardoso to Atlético Madrid, saw Antony as a key addition. The final agreement required Antony to accept a salary reduction from his €12 million annual wages at United, a critical factor in sealing the deal.
The transfer structure, with United retaining 50% of future transfer profits, ensures potential long-term gains for the English club. The €3 million in variables are tied to individual and team achievements, such as goals scored or European qualification. This strategic move reflects United’s intent to minimize losses on a player whose market value has dropped to around €20 million, according to Transfermarkt.
- Negotiation timeline:
- January 2025: Antony loaned to Real Betis.
- May 2025: Betis expresses interest in a permanent deal.
- August 2025: United rejects second loan proposal.
- September 1, 2025: €25M deal finalized.
Real Betis’ ambitions with Antony
Real Betis views Antony as a cornerstone for their 2025/26 campaign, targeting a strong La Liga finish and success in the Europa League. Under Manuel Pellegrini, Betis finished sixth in La Liga last season and reached the Conference League final, losing to Chelsea. Antony’s versatility as a right winger or attacking midfielder, combined with his dribbling and playmaking, makes him a perfect fit for Pellegrini’s system.
During his loan, Antony won over Betis fans with his flair and work rate, earning the iconic number 7 shirt for the upcoming season. The club’s investment in the Brazilian aligns with their strategy of recruiting South American talent, following the success of players like Johnny Cardoso. Fan reactions on social media have been overwhelmingly positive, with supporters eager to see Antony’s impact in a full season.
- Betis’ goals with Antony:
- Strengthen the attack for La Liga and Europa League.
- Boost competitiveness in high-stakes matches.
- Leverage Antony’s popularity to engage fans.
Antony’s journey: From São Paulo to European spotlight
Born on February 24, 2000, Antony Matheus dos Santos rose through São Paulo’s youth ranks, debuting professionally in 2018. His €15.75 million transfer to Ajax in 2020, with potential add-ons up to €21.75 million, marked his breakthrough in Europe. At Ajax, he won two Eredivisie titles and a Dutch Cup, establishing himself as a top prospect. His €95 million move to Manchester United in 2022 was a club record for a winger, but his struggles in England led to criticism and limited playing time.
The loan to Betis in 2024/25 proved a turning point, with Antony rediscovering his form and earning a spot back in Brazil’s national team. His Olympic gold medal in 2021 and recent performances highlight his potential to shine in Spain, where the tactical setup suits his style.
- Key career milestones:
- 2018: Professional debut with São Paulo.
- 2020: Transfer to Ajax for €15.75 million.
- 2021: Olympic gold with Brazil U-23.
- 2022: €95M move to Manchester United.
- 2025: Loan and permanent transfer to Betis.
Market reactions and future outlook
Antony’s transfer sparked varied reactions. In England, fans and pundits viewed the move as United cutting losses on a high-profile signing that underperformed. British media praised the deal’s structure, noting the retained economic rights as a savvy move. In Spain, Betis supporters celebrated the signing, with local outlets emphasizing Antony’s potential to elevate the team’s attacking output.
The transfer market in 2025 was frenetic, with other notable deals including Tottenham’s €50 million bid for Savinho and Chelsea’s signing of Alejandro Garnacho from United. Antony’s move reflects a broader trend of clubs prioritizing financial flexibility while investing in proven talent. For Betis, securing Antony at a fraction of his 2022 value is seen as a coup.
- Reactions to the deal:
- Betis fans: Excitement over Antony’s permanent stay.
- UK media: Approval of United’s financial recovery strategy.
- Analysts: Confidence in Antony’s revival in La Liga.
Transfer window dynamics
The 2025 transfer window, closing on September 1 in England and August 30 in Spain, saw significant activity across Europe. Manchester United’s squad overhaul included offloading Garnacho to Chelsea and loaning Rasmus Hojlund to Napoli. Betis, meanwhile, continued their focus on South American talent, with Antony joining a roster that blends youth and experience. The transfer window highlighted a growing emphasis on strategic deals, with clubs balancing immediate needs and long-term financial planning.
- Notable window moves:
- Tottenham: €50M offer for Savinho (Manchester City).
- Chelsea: €40M for Alejandro Garnacho (United).
- Napoli: Loan of Rasmus Hojlund with buy option.
