Brazilian winger Antony has successfully completed his permanent transfer to Real Betis from Manchester United in a €25 million deal, ending his disappointing three-year spell at Old Trafford. The 25-year-old will travel to Sevilla within the next 24 hours to undergo his medical examination and finalize the transfer that includes a significant 50% sell-on clause for Manchester United.
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Romano Confirms Deal Completion
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano provided the definitive confirmation with his trademark announcement: “BREAKING: Antony to Real Betis, here we go! €22m plus €3m fee to Manchester United. Manchester United will have 50% sell-on clause on profit for the future sale. Antony, in Sevilla in the next 24h for medical as deal is done. Antonio vuelve a Betis.”
The announcement marks the end of prolonged negotiations between the clubs, with the deal finally reaching completion on transfer deadline day after earlier complications regarding wage structures and compensation packages.
| Transfer Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Base Transfer Fee | €22 million |
| Additional Bonuses | €3 million |
| Total Package | €25 million |
| Sell-on Clause | 50% of future profit |
| Medical Date | Within 24 hours |
| Contract Length | Permanent deal |
Successful Loan Spell Drives Reunion
The permanent transfer follows Antony’s highly successful loan spell at Betis during the second half of last season, where he rediscovered his form under Manuel Pellegrini’s guidance. The Brazilian scored nine goals and provided five assists in 26 appearances, helping propel Betis to a sixth-placed finish in La Liga and reaching the Europa Conference League final.
His impressive performances in Seville demonstrated the talent that convinced Manchester United to pay Ajax €86 million for his services in 2022. The stark contrast between his Betis form and his struggles at Old Trafford highlighted the importance of finding the right tactical system and environment for his skills to flourish.
Financial Structure and United’s Loss
The €25 million deal represents a significant financial loss for Manchester United, who will absorb a €61 million hit from their original €86 million investment. The fee is structured as €22 million guaranteed plus €3 million in performance-related add-ons, making it a relatively affordable acquisition for Betis given Antony’s proven quality.
However, the inclusion of a 50% sell-on clause on future profits provides Manchester United with potential recovery opportunities should Antony continue his upward trajectory and attract interest from larger clubs in subsequent transfer windows.
| Financial Breakdown | Amount (€ millions) |
|---|---|
| Original Man Utd Investment | 86 |
| Sale Price to Betis | 25 |
| United’s Financial Loss | 61 |
| Guaranteed Fee | 22 |
| Performance Bonuses | 3 |
Wage Resolution and Contract Terms
One of the primary obstacles in completing the transfer was resolved when Antony agreed to accept a significant wage reduction to secure his return to Betis. The Brazilian had initially sought compensation from Manchester United for the salary difference, but ultimately accepted the financial sacrifice to complete his preferred move.
Manchester United’s decision not to pay any termination fee or salary compensation to Antony represents a firm stance from the club’s hierarchy, ensuring they avoid additional financial burden beyond the substantial transfer loss already incurred.
Pellegrini’s Tactical Influence
Manuel Pellegrini’s tactical approach proved instrumental in unlocking Antony’s potential during his loan spell, utilizing the Brazilian’s pace, dribbling ability, and work rate in a system that maximized his attacking output. The Chilean coach’s experience with technical players and his ability to restore confidence made him crucial in Antony’s career resurgence.
The permanent nature of this transfer allows Pellegrini to build long-term tactical plans around Antony’s skillset, providing stability and continuity that can further enhance the player’s development and contribution to the team’s ambitions.
European Competition Experience
Antony’s return to Betis brings valuable European competition experience, having participated in Champions League and Europa League campaigns during his time at Ajax and Manchester United. His understanding of different tactical demands and high-pressure situations will prove beneficial as Betis continue their European aspirations.
His performances in the Europa Conference League final run last season demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches, providing Pellegrini with a reliable option for the biggest games on Betis’s fixture list.
Career Redemption Opportunity
This transfer represents a genuine redemption opportunity for Antony, whose reputation suffered significantly during his struggles at Manchester United. His ability to perform consistently at Betis could rebuild his standing in European football and potentially earn him a recall to the Brazil national team setup.
The pressure to succeed is heightened by the permanent nature of the deal and the expectation that he can replicate his loan form over a full season campaign. Success at Betis could transform his career trajectory and restore confidence in his abilities at the highest level.
Impact on United’s Squad Planning
Antony’s departure allows Manchester United to remove a significant salary from their wage bill while creating squad space for other attacking options. His exit represents part of a broader squad overhaul under the current management, focusing on players who fit the tactical system and club culture.
The 50% sell-on clause ensures that United maintain financial interest in Antony’s future development, potentially benefiting from any success he achieves at Betis that might attract future transfer interest from premium European clubs.
Betis’s Ambition and Investment
The €25 million investment represents significant spending for Real Betis, demonstrating their ambition to compete consistently for European qualification and progress in continental competitions. Securing Antony permanently rather than on another loan shows their long-term commitment to building a competitive squad.
This transfer also sends a positive message to other potential targets about Betis’s project and their ability to provide a platform for players to excel, potentially making them more attractive to similar profile signings in future windows.
La Liga Return and Adaptation
Antony’s return to La Liga provides him with the opportunity to establish himself in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues, having previously shown his quality during the loan spell. His familiarity with Spanish football culture and tactical demands should facilitate a seamless integration process.
The technical nature of La Liga football suits Antony’s skillset, with his dribbling ability and pace proving effective against the league’s diverse range of defensive approaches. His success could serve as a template for other players seeking career revival in Spanish football.
Future Prospects and Development
At 25 years old, Antony still has significant room for development and the potential to reach his peak years at Betis. The stability of a permanent contract and the confidence gained from his previous success at the club create ideal conditions for continued improvement.
His performances will be closely monitored by scouts from major European clubs, with the 50% sell-on clause ensuring that any future success will be financially beneficial for Manchester United while potentially opening doors to even bigger opportunities for the player himself.
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FAQs
How much did Real Betis pay for Antony?
Real Betis agreed to pay Manchester United €25 million for Antony’s permanent transfer, structured as €22 million guaranteed plus €3 million in performance-related bonuses. The deal also includes a 50% sell-on clause on future profits.
Why did Antony leave Manchester United?
Antony struggled to make an impact at Manchester United despite his €86 million transfer fee, scoring only 12 goals in 96 appearances. His successful loan spell at Betis, where he scored 9 goals in 26 games, convinced him to seek a permanent return to Spain.
What is the sell-on clause in Antony’s transfer?
Manchester United negotiated a 50% sell-on clause, meaning they will receive half of any profit Real Betis makes if they sell Antony in the future. This provides United with potential financial recovery from their initial investment loss.
When will Antony complete his medical at Betis?
According to Fabrizio Romano, Antony will travel to Sevilla within the next 24 hours to undergo his medical examination and complete the formalities of his permanent transfer to Real Betis.
How did Antony perform during his loan at Betis?
Antony had an excellent loan spell at Real Betis, scoring 9 goals and providing 5 assists in 26 appearances. His performances helped Betis reach the Europa Conference League final and achieve a sixth-place finish in La Liga.
