In a candid and revealing interview with ESPN Brasil, Brazilian winger Antony opened up about the challenging and disheartening end to his tenure at Manchester United, shedding light on what he described as a lack of respect from those around him. The 25-year-old, who recently completed a permanent €22 million ($25.6 million) transfer to Real Betis after a loan spell with the Spanish club, spoke about the isolation he felt during his final days at Old Trafford and his determination to move forward with his career in La Liga.

Antony’s journey with Manchester United began with high expectations when he joined the club in 2022 from Ajax for a hefty €95 million ($99 million) fee. Touted as one of Brazil’s brightest talents, the winger was expected to bring flair, creativity, and goals to United’s attack. However, his time in the Premier League was marred by inconsistency, limited game time, and growing scrutiny from fans and pundits alike. After two seasons of struggling to secure a regular starting spot, Antony was loaned to Real Betis in the 2024-25 season, a move that eventually became permanent in the summer of 2025.

Reflecting on his departure from Manchester United, Antony didn’t hold back in describing the sense of alienation he experienced. “I’m not the kind of person who likes to stir controversy or point fingers at anyone, and I won’t name names here,” he told ESPN Brasil. “But I felt there was a bit of disrespect, even rudeness, when no one would even say good morning or good afternoon to me. Not even the basics were there. But that’s in the past now, and I’m not going to dwell on it. I’m at Betis, living here, and that’s what matters most to me now.”

The Brazilian’s comments paint a stark picture of his final days at Manchester United, where he was reportedly asked to train alone under the instructions of new manager Rúben Amorim. Antony was also excluded from the club’s pre-season tour, a decision that likely signaled the end of his time at Old Trafford. The lack of basic courtesy, as Antony described, raises questions about the internal dynamics at Manchester United during a period of transition under Amorim’s leadership.

When pressed on why things didn’t work out at United, Antony took a reflective tone, demonstrating maturity and accountability. “I’m a man who takes responsibility for my actions,” he said. “I know there were moments where I could have done better, but sometimes things don’t click the way you expect. Football is like that. You learn, you grow, and you move on.”

Antony’s struggles at Manchester United were not solely down to his performances on the pitch. The intense pressure of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs, coupled with the high expectations set by his transfer fee, created a challenging environment for the young winger. Injuries, competition for places, and tactical mismatches under multiple managers—Erik ten Hag and later Rúben Amorim—further limited his opportunities to shine. In his two seasons at United, Antony made 82 appearances across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing 5 assists. While these numbers are respectable for a squad player, they fell short of the expectations for a marquee signing.

The move to Real Betis has offered Antony a fresh start, and early signs suggest he is relishing the opportunity to rebuild his career in Spain. Under the guidance of Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini, Antony has shown flashes of the brilliance that made him a standout at Ajax. His dribbling, work rate, and willingness to take on defenders have already endeared him to Betis fans, who see him as a key part of the club’s ambitions to compete for European qualification in La Liga.

At Betis, Antony has found a more supportive environment, both on and off the pitch. The Brazilian spoke warmly about his new home in Seville, emphasizing his gratitude for the warm welcome he received. “The people here at Betis have been incredible,” he said. “From the staff to the fans, everyone has made me feel valued and part of the family. That’s what I needed—a place where I can play my football and feel at home.”

Antony’s experience at Manchester United also highlights broader issues about the treatment of players in high-pressure environments. The lack of basic human interaction, as described by Antony, points to a potential cultural issue within the club during his time there. While he refrained from naming individuals, his comments suggest a disconnect between players, staff, or management that may have contributed to his sense of isolation. For a club of Manchester United’s stature, such revelations are concerning and may prompt reflection on how players are supported during difficult periods.

Despite the challenges, Antony’s story is one of resilience. Rather than allowing his negative experiences to define him, he has chosen to focus on the future. His permanent move to Real Betis represents a new chapter, one where he hopes to rediscover the form that once made him one of South America’s most exciting prospects. With his confidence restored and a supportive club behind him, Antony is determined to prove his doubters wrong.

“I’ve always believed in myself, even when things got tough,” Antony said. “I know what I’m capable of, and I’m working hard every day to show it. Betis is giving me the chance to do that, and I’m grateful for it.”

For Manchester United, Antony’s departure and subsequent comments may serve as a wake-up call. The club has undergone significant changes in recent years, both on and off the pitch, as they strive to return to their former glory. However, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for players—regardless of their status or performance—remains crucial for long-term success.

As Antony embarks on this new phase of his career, his story serves as a reminder of the human side of football. Beyond the transfers, tactics, and trophies, players are individuals navigating immense pressure and scrutiny. Antony’s willingness to speak openly about his experiences, while maintaining a sense of professionalism and accountability, is a testament to his character.

In Seville, the Brazilian winger has found a new home and a fresh opportunity to showcase his talents. For fans of Real Betis, Antony’s arrival brings excitement and hope for what lies ahead. And for Antony himself, it’s a chance to write a new story—one where he is valued, respected, and, most importantly, greeted with a simple “hello” each day.