Antony Shines Again With Amazing Free Kick for Real Betis

Brazilian winger Antony scored a beautiful free kick for Real Betis. This goal brings his total to 8 since joining the Spanish team from Manchester United in January. His performance shows his great change since moving to La Liga on loan.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Antony’s free kick was during Betis’ important UEFA Conference League semifinal against Fiorentina. It helped Betis win 4-3 on aggregate and reach the final. Antony was key in the second leg in Florence. He scored a goal and made an assist, helping Betis get the draw they needed to move to the final in Wroclaw later this month. Since joining Betis, he has contributed 12 goal involvements (8 goals and 4 assists) in just 20 games in all competitions.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The 25-year-old has found new success since leaving Manchester United in January. After struggling under Erik ten Hag, Antony has looked like a new player at the Estadio Benito Villamarín. His form has been important to Betis’ European run. Manuel Pellegrini’s team is close to winning the Conference League trophy. In La Liga, Betis is 7th, four points behind 6th-placed Real Sociedad and five points ahead of 8th-placed Las Palmas.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ANTONY?

Even with his great performances, Antony’s future is uncertain. Real Betis president Angel Haro said keeping the Brazilian after his loan is “very, very complicated.” The Spanish club will talk with Manchester United in the off-season about options like extending the loan for another year or figuring out a permanent deal. United wants to sell Antony to get funds for Ruben Amorim’s transfer targets. Betis prefers another loan. Antony seems open to staying, saying: “I dream of making my name in Real Betis’ history.”

CONFERENCE LEAGUE FINAL AWAITS

Before making transfer decisions, Antony will focus on the Conference League final in Wroclaw. Betis will play against Chelsea. The London club got their spot by beating Molde, while Betis beat Fiorentina in a dramatic match. This is a big chance for Antony to win a trophy with Betis and improve his reputation after a tough time in Manchester. The final on May 28 gives the Brazilian winger another chance to show his skills on the European stage.