Manchester United loanee Antony continued his impressive form in Spain, netting his third goal in as many games as Real Betis cruised to a 3-0 victory over nine-man Real Sociedad on Sunday.
The 24-year-old winger, who had already found the net against Celta Vigo and Gent, showcased his brilliance once again with a sensational volley from just inside the box to open the scoring at the Benito Villamarín.
Antony further influenced the game by assisting Marc Roca for Betis’ third goal, capping off a dominant performance that propelled the club to eighth place in LaLiga. He also won a penalty earlier in the match, though Giovani Lo Celso failed to convert it.
Since arriving on loan from Manchester United for the remainder of the season, Antony has featured in four matches across all competitions. His impact has been immediate, earning Player of the Match honors in all three of his LaLiga appearances—against Athletic Club, Celta Vigo, and Real Sociedad—while also impressing in the Europa Conference League against Gent.
Speaking to DAZN after the match, Antony credited his happiness as the key to his resurgence.
“I think the most important thing is to be happy,” he said. “Here, I am happy. Everything is coming naturally. I am thrilled to score and contribute to the team. I don’t set goal targets; I just work hard, stay focused, and enjoy every moment.”
Antony has thrived in Betis’ restructured attacking lineup, operating behind fellow January signing Cucho Hernández, who arrived from MLS side Columbus Crew, alongside Isco and young talent Jesús Rodriguez.
“I’m really pleased with our forward line,” Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini stated in a post-match press conference. “I always emphasize teamwork, but individuals make the difference in key moments. Antony has started exceptionally well, and his goal today was something special.”
Despite being Manchester United’s second most expensive signing at £80 million ($97.3m) from Ajax in 2022, Antony’s current form has fueled speculation about his long-term future. Betis CEO Ramón Alarcón recently hinted at the possibility of extending the Brazilian’s stay, stating, “Why not? It’s a possibility.”
Looking ahead, Betis faces two consecutive away fixtures against Gent in the Conference League and Getafe in LaLiga before hosting league leaders Real Madrid on March 2.
