Since completing his desired move to Real Betis on deadline day, Antony has revealed that he wasn’t short of interest throughout the summer.
Indeed, it seems as though his revitalised form in the second half of 2024/2025 when on loan from Manchester United to Betis caught the eye of a host of clubs – even European giants Bayern Munich.
Antony seals long-awaited Real Betis move
In the 26 appearances he made for Los Verdiblancos, Antony registered nine goals and five assists. He played an influential role in the side reaching the UEFA Conference League final and securing a Europa League spot via a sixth-placed La Liga finish, hence Betis being hell-bent on him returning for the 2025/2026 campaign.
After a lengthy saga that lasted the entire transfer window, United confirmed on Monday evening that the 25-year-old had left the club permanently in a £21.5 million package, following fellow outcasts Alejandro Garnacho (Chelsea), Marcus Rashford (Barcelona, loan) and Jadon Sancho (Aston Villa, loan) out the door at Old Trafford.
Antony was linked with a host of suitors prior to making the move, including the likes of Atletico Madrid and Como.
Bayern made late swoop to change Antony’s mind
Yet, fans were unaware of Bayern’s interest in the Brazilian until he disclosed their approach in his media duties with Betis this week.
When speaking to COPE, he confirmed that the German giants tried their luck with an 11th-hour approach to gauge the prospect of adding the Brazilian to Vincent Kompany’s ranks, but were informed that he had already pledged to join Betis.
“I spoke with Bayern, I don’t know if it was €7 million, but I said I had Betis’s word, that it was 95% certain and that I would respect my word. I feel comfortable making this decision because I’m very happy here. More than five teams called me,” said Antony.
“Today will mark my life; it was very emotional, and I’ve never experienced that before. My family is very happy. It’s very hard to be away from them, and it’s been very hard being alone in the hotel for more than 40 days. My wife was waiting in Seville, and I told her my first choice was Betis.
“I was very moved seeing the affection of the Betis fans; I couldn’t get out of the car, so I ran out. It was a very nice party.”
