Spanish media make their feelings clear on Antony after his debut for Real Betis after Man Utd exit

Spanish media have had their say on Antony’s debut for Real Betis after the Brazil international was loaned to the La Liga side from Manchester United for the remainder of the season.

Antony, 24, arrived at United from Ajax for a reported £81.3m fee in the summer of 2022.

However, he failed to impress at the Red Devils and after making just 14 appearances this season, penned a loan move to La Liga outfit Real Betis.

On Sunday, he made his first appearance for the Seville-based club and just 14 minutes into his debut had a hand in his side’s first goal when his shot was parried by Athletic Club’s goalkeeper Adrian before Isco, 32, tapped home from close range.

The Brazil international was substituted on 72 minutes and was clapped off the field by the Betis fans gathered inside Benito Villamarín Stadium.

And the Spanish media were quick to offer their opinions on the player’s performance.

Estadio Deportivo gave him an eight of out ten rating for his efforts, they wrote: “The Brazilian, one of Betis' signings in this winter transfer market, was the best of the night as he created danger, caused Isco's goal, and gave the Athletic defence a night. A great letter of introduction for Antony that excites Betis fans."

While Mundo Deportivo wrote: "The former United player had a good debut in the green and white jersey, showing himself to be very incisive on the right wing and making dangerous diagonal runs towards the centre, one of which led to the first goal, scored by Isco."

Antony impressed during his debut for Real Betis (Credit:Getty)

Their fellow Spanish outlet Marca explained: "The Brazilian winger was directly involved in the play that led to the first goal of the game, scored by Isco , and showed his speed and quality. But he was substituted in the final stretch and was unable to celebrate with a victory his debut at the club where he will play on loan until June."

Real Betis boss and former Premier League-winning manager Manuel Pellegrini gave his thoughts shortly after the game.

"Well, I think it was a very positive debut," he told reporters. "He's a quality player.

"I was talking to him just before the game. I think a good player doesn't have to be constantly showing off his skills with the ball. He has to play a good game, make few mistakes and do two or three important things: a goal, a good pass, a good cross.

"I think he was very involved today, especially with the second goal. He had just arrived a couple of days before and I think he's going to contribute a lot to us."

Betis are next in La Liga action on Saturday 8 February when they will face Celta Vigo at the Estadio de Balaídos.