Antony Opens Up on ‘Hitting Rock Bottom’ at Man Utd and Emotional Return to Brazil

From £85m signing to loan revival: Antony’s journey back to the Selecao

When Antony made the big-money move from Ajax to Manchester United in the summer of 2022, the expectations were sky-high. The £85 million winger was reunited with his former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag, and many believed this reunion could spark Antony’s career to new heights in the Premier League. But what followed was a rollercoaster few years, both on and off the pitch, that tested the Brazilian’s resolve like never before.

Bright start at Old Trafford quickly faded

Initially, Antony seemed to settle well into life at Old Trafford. His tricky dribbling, flair, and pace showed glimpses of the player who dazzled fans in the Eredivisie and Europe’s top competitions. However, despite flashes of brilliance, consistency proved elusive.

Over the course of nearly three seasons, Antony made 96 appearances for the Red Devils, but managed only 12 goals. For a player brought in with such a hefty price tag, that return was underwhelming. Injuries, form dips, and off-field distractions all took their toll, and the once-promising partnership with ten Hag began to look like a gamble that hadn’t paid off.

By January 2025, it became clear to the Manchester United hierarchy that Antony was surplus to requirements. A loan deal to La Liga side Real Betis was arranged — a fresh start in Spain that Antony hoped would reignite his career.

Rediscovering form at Real Betis

Antony Manchester United

The move to Real Betis proved to be a turning point. Antony rediscovered a spark in Spain’s top flight, netting nine goals in his loan spell. More than just the numbers, his performances were influential in key moments, helping Betis reach the UEFA Conference League final — a stage Antony hadn’t graced in years.

This resurgence in form caught the eye not only of club fans but also the Brazilian national team selectors. The new Selecao coach, Carlo Ancelotti, wasted no time in calling Antony back into the fold, signaling a major vote of confidence after a difficult period.

Antony emotional international recall

Antony Brazil

Speaking to the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF), Antony described the moment of being called back to the national team as one of the most emotional of his career. He revealed that the recent call-up felt even more meaningful than his initial debut for Brazil back in October 2021.

“It was one of the most emotional moments,” Antony said. “I told some friends in the national team that this call-up was even more exciting than the first time I came here. It was so emotional because of everything I’ve been through.”

The winger spoke candidly about his struggles during his time at Manchester United, admitting to hitting “rock bottom” but emphasizing the importance of resilience.

“Being in good shape, hitting rock bottom, and having the resilience that I had, with the help of God and my family, was very important,” he explained.

Finding strength in adversity

Antony Real Betis 2024-25

Antony’s journey back to form wasn’t just physical; it was a deeply personal battle. Despite feeling hopeless at his lowest point, the winger said he never forgot what he was capable of.

“Even though I had no hope during the difficult time I was going through, at the same time I remembered many things I had experienced,” he said. “I stopped to think and said to myself: ‘I haven’t forgotten how to play soccer, I didn’t play in a World Cup for nothing, I didn’t make it to the national team for nothing.’ Everything happens for a reason, and this process was very necessary for my life because it made me stronger.”

Those words offer a glimpse into the mindset of a player who has battled doubt and criticism but refused to let it define him.

What’s next for Antony at club and country?

Antony now boasts 16 senior caps for Brazil — a testament to his talent and potential despite the bumps along the way. While his contract with Manchester United runs until 2027, all signs point to a permanent move away from Old Trafford this summer.

Interest in the winger has reportedly come from several top European clubs, eager to harness the player who showed glimpses of brilliance in both England and Spain. For Antony, the next chapter will be crucial in re-establishing himself as one of the world’s top wide attackers.

At the same time, his return to the Brazilian national team under Carlo Ancelotti offers a platform to remind the football world of his capabilities on the biggest stage.

A story of resilience and renewal

Antony story is far from over. What began as one of the Premier League’s most expensive and eagerly anticipated signings has transformed into a tale of resilience, growth, and redemption. The highs of his early promise at Manchester United gave way to challenging times, but through it all, Antony’s belief in himself and his love for the game never waned.

Now back in Brazil’s national team setup and with a rejuvenated career ahead, Antony’s journey is a reminder that even the darkest moments can lead to new beginnings.