Manchester United supporters have been left in shock as Brazilian winger Antony has finally spoken out about the difficulties he faced during his time at Old Trafford. The former Ajax star arrived at United in a highly publicized £85 million transfer but failed to justify the hefty price tag under manager Erik ten Hag. His performances were largely underwhelming, and he struggled to make a significant impact in the Premier League. However, since securing a loan move to Real Betis in January, Antony has undergone a remarkable transformation, delivering standout performances filled with goals, assists, and flair. His resurgence in Spain has left many fans wondering why he could not replicate the same success in England.
Now, Antony has provided some insight into what went wrong during his time at Manchester United and what has changed at Real Betis that has allowed him to rediscover his form. In a candid interview with Brazilian media outlet Globo Esporte, the winger admitted that a crucial shift in his playing approach has been instrumental in his revival. He revealed that a particular habit in his game had made him too predictable in England, ultimately limiting his effectiveness.
Antony openly acknowledged that his struggles at Manchester United stemmed from his repetitive style of play, which defenders in the Premier League quickly adapted to. He frequently relied on his trademark move—cutting inside onto his favored left foot—without varying his approach, making it easy for opposition defenders to anticipate his movements and neutralize his threat. Reflecting on his time at United, he admitted that his reluctance to adapt had hindered his performances.
“I was too predictable at Manchester United,” Antony stated. “I kept attempting the same moves, and defenders in the Premier League caught on quickly. I wasn’t adjusting my game, which made it easier for them to stop me. At Betis, the coaches have encouraged me to break free from that rigidity. They’ve told me to play with more creativity and trust my instincts rather than sticking to the same patterns.”
This newfound freedom has clearly benefitted Antony, as his performances in Spain have been a stark contrast to his struggles in England. By embracing a more dynamic approach to his game, he has been able to unlock his full potential, showing the talent that initially convinced United to invest heavily in him. His revelation has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about whether he could have succeeded at Old Trafford if he had been given similar guidance earlier in his tenure.
