2 weeks Ago By Olly Dawes
Manchester United wide man Antony has been catching the eye for Real Betis, and Saturday night saw him take on Real Betis in La Liga.Manchester United fans are fully focused on Sunday’s derby against Manchester City as Ruben Amorim seeks another victory over Pep Guardiola.United’s 1-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest in midweek was a real disappointment, but Amorim’s men have a chance to hit back at Old Trafford.
Fans may have caught a glimpse of United winger Antony on Saturday night, as the Brazilian featured for loan side Real Betis against Barcelona.Antony played 75 minutes as Betis grabbed a point in Catalunya, securing a 1-1 draw against title-chasing Barca.United loanee Antony impressed against Sevilla last week, so let’s take a look at how the Spanish media rated his display against a top side in Barcelona.
READ MORE: Real Betis players support innovative idea to sign Antony transfer, Man Utd flop is a wanted manPhoto by Manuel Queimadelos/Quality Sport Images/Getty ImagesSpanish media on Antony v BarcelonaAntony lined up on the right flank for Betis, meaning he was coming up against Barca’s impressive left back Alejandro Balde.“His speed caused confusion in Barça’s defense until they gained strength,” said Mundo Deportivo, describing his display as ‘dizzying’.El Desmarque rated Antony at six out of 10, whilst suggesting that the United loanee was Barcelona’s ‘biggest headache’.
“Barça’s biggest headache. All of Betis’ danger came through his boots, trying to cause damage on the counterattack. He tried to wage war on his own, attacking with one man down on more than one occasion.
That prevented him from doing more damage, but his commitment is unquestionable,” they wrote.Mucho Deporte went with a seven out of 10 rating for Antony, praising him as a ‘real threat’ and adding that ‘you could sense danger’ when he had the ball.Antony appeared to tire in the second half, but he certainly caused problems for Barcelona in Saturday’s 1-1 draw.
“He was a real threat in the first half. Every time he made a run, you could sense danger. In the second half, he dropped off, and it was clear his legs weren’t as fresh,” they said.
Antony performances could secure Man Utd exitThese displays for Real Betis will leave United fans questioning just why Antony struggled so much at Old Trafford – or doubting the level of La Liga.Antony may be shining for Betis, but the chances of a return to United seem pretty slim at best.United would surely rather cash in, and Atletico Madrid are now thought to be eyeing Antony for a potential summer move.
United’s £40million asking price suddenly looks a little more attainable, especially with Antony impressing against Barcelona – arguably the finest team in Europe right now.Amorim is unlikely to have plans for Antony moving forward and with each impressive display, the prospect of a permanent summer exit grows stronger..
