Antony scores spectacular volley as Real Betis give verdict on Man Utd loanee

Real Betis have made it clear how much they value Antony who has been setting the Spanish league alight since his January move.

He delivered a standout performance in their 3-1 La Liga win over Girona on April 21, at Estadi Municipal de Montilivi, scoring a spectacular volleyed goal that helped secure a crucial victory.

The 25-year-old Brazilian, on loan from Manchester United, struck Betis’ second goal in the 39th minute, connecting with a pinpoint cross from Romain Perraud, as noted by BBC Sport.

The goal, hailed as a “golazo” on Real Betis’ official X account, contributed to a first-half blitz alongside strikes from Johnny Cardoso (6th minute) and Isco (42nd minute), lifting Betis to sixth in La Liga and strengthening their European qualification push.

Antony’s manager, Manuel Pellegrini, praised the winger’s impact post-match, stating to DAZN, “I see Antony very involved with the group. We would all be very happy if he could stay at Real Betis.”

Pellegrini highlighted Antony’s seamless integration, adding, “He has adapted very well to our collective style of play”. Earlier in the season, Pellegrini described Antony as “a very special player,” noting, “It’s not a coincidence when €100 million (£86m) are paid for a player.

He arrived with the conviction that he had to mature… He’s more focused on finishing plays well, making good crosses, and being very involved in the team’s collective functioning”.

Reflecting on the Girona game, Pellegrini said, “It was a very complete game. We went out looking for it from the start… We scored those three goals very well, and we had even more opportunities”.

Antony’s resurgence, with nine goal contributions (five goals, four assists) in 16 Betis appearances, has sparked fan excitement on X, with posts from @utd3ra and @bestgug lauding his weak-foot volley.

Girona’s late consolation from Cristhian Stuani (85th minute) couldn’t overturn Betis’ dominance. With United open to permanent offers and Betis keen to retain him, Antony’s form could shape his future, while Betis eye a European spot against Real Valladolid next.