How Antony is on verge of 'football history' and where Man Utd winger's future lies

Manchester United winger Antony is on the verge of making football history with a record that may never be matched again.

After leaving United in January to join La Liga side Real Betis on loan, Antony has rediscovered his best form, scoring eight goals in 21 appearances and playing a key role in Betis’ push for Champions League qualification.

Now, Antony is set for a unique achievement thanks to his involvement in both United’s and Betis’ European campaigns.

On Thursday, Manchester United secured their spot in an all-English Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur, having impressively beaten Athletic Club 7-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, Betis booked their place in the Europa Conference League final after a dramatic extra-time win over Fiorentina, setting up a showdown with Chelsea.

Because Antony has played in both United’s Europa League run and Betis’ Conference League journey, he is eligible to receive a winners’ medal from either, or even both, clubs should they win their respective finals at the end of the month.

If both United and Betis emerge as champions, Antony would become the first player ever to be a double European champion in the same season-a feat that, due to UEFA regulations, is unlikely to ever be repeated.

While several players have won both the Europa League and the Champions League during their careers, none have managed to do so within a single season.

United will face Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final at San Mames in Bilbao on May 21, where they are considered moderate favourites. Betis, meanwhile, will take on Chelsea in the Conference League final at Poland’s Stadion Miejski one week later, on May 28.

If both teams lift their respective trophies, Antony will secure a place in football history as the first ever double European champion in a single campaign.

And all along there remains doubt over where Antony will play at the end of the season and why he can do so well for Betis and yet fail at United.

According to Football Insider, Man United are ready to sell Antony for £20-£30 million.

It is believed Man United are aware they have no chance of recouping the full £86 million they paid to sign him from Ajax in the summer of 2022.

Per the report, Atletico Madrid have expressed an interest in signing Antony as Betis plan to speak with Man United as they hope to keep the on-loan star.