Antony breaks his silence on Man Utd exit and sends message to fans after scoring again for Real Betis

Antony has broken his silence on leaving Manchester United after continuing his fine start to life at Real Betis.

United paid £86 million to sign Antony from Ajax in 2022 but despite working under Erik ten Hag previously, he never got going at Old Trafford and has scored 12 goals in 96 games.

Antony, who failed to score for over a year, struggled for regular game-time under new boss Ruben Amorim and so was allowed to join Betis on loan in January.

But the 24-year-old has found his form in Andalusia. After assisting Isco on his debut, Antony was named Man of the Match for games against Athletic Bilbao and Celta Vigo - opening his account in the latter fixture.

The Brazilian notched the opener and his second goal in three games in a 3-0 UEFA Conference League win over Gent on Thursday night.

He cut in from the right flank and curled one into the far corner with his left foot in the 47th minute.

Antony has reacted to his goal and the key win for Manuel Pellegrini's men, expressing just how much he is enjoying life in his new surroundings.

Antony scored his second goal for Real Betis on Thursday. Image: Getty

"In my heart I knew that I would be very happy at Betis, I was sure about that," Antony said, as per Fabrizio Romano.

“This win goes for the fans, they never stop supporting us."

Hailed as "hungry", "ambitious" and an "excellent player by Pellegrini, Antony is on a six-month loan whereby Betis are paying part of his salary.

Betis open to permanent move

Although still contracted until United until 2027, the Sao Paulo academy product could end up staying beyond this season if he continues to produce.

"Yes, I think so," chief executive Ramon Alarcon said when asked if a permanent move for Antony could happen.

"The other day the CEO of United called me. We sent them details of the player throughout the week so they can see we’re looking after their asset.

“We have very good chemistry with United and the player, who is happy here. It is a possibility that he will continue next season, why not?”

Betis are back in action on Sunday when they take on Real Sociedad in La Liga.