Antony admits that he “hit rock bottom” after flopping badly at Manchester United, but an “emotional” return to the Brazil squad is being embraced.
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Forward struggled at Old TraffordRediscovered spark on loan at BetisEarned Selecao recall under AncelottiFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Tricky winger Antony moved to Old Trafford as part of an £85 million ($115m) transfer package in the summer of 2022. He was reunited with former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag in England and enjoyed a bright start to his spell with Premier League heavyweights.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Things quickly unravelled from there, on and off the pitch, with Antony mustering just 12 goals for United through 96 appearances. He was deemed surplus to requirements in January 2025 and allowed to link up with La Liga side Real Betis on loan.
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A spark was rediscovered in Spain, with nine goals being recorded while also gracing the Conference League final, and Antony has been drafted back into the Brazil ranks by new Selecao boss Carlo Ancelotti.
GettyWHAT ANTONY SAID
The 25-year-old has told of earning an international recall after coming through some dark days: "It was one of the most emotional moments. I mentioned to some friends here in the national team that this call-up was more exciting than the first time I came here [October 2021], and it was even more emotional because of everything I've been through.
"Being in good shape, hitting rock bottom, and having the resilience that I had, with the help of God and my family, was very important."
