Since completing his loan move from Manchester United to Real Betis, Antony’s fortunes have changed more dramatically and swiftly than you are likely to see in a football player. The Brazilian was branded as one of the team’s worst acquisitions and an £86 million miscalculation at Old Trafford.
However, the winger has been a revelation in Spain. Now, the former Ajax player’s tricks and reliance on cutting in on his left foot, which failed to fool anyone in the Premier League, have turned into a deadly weapon, and it appears that his confidence has returned. Even more remarkable is his total influence on his squad, as seen by the La Liga table that would have been in place if Antony had joined Betis at the start of the season.
La Liga Table Since Antony Joined Betis Makes Incredible Reading
The Brazilian has helped his side claim 22 points in nine games
His new team has played nine league games since the 25-year-old made the temporary move, and in that time, the Brazilian has managed two goals and two assists. As one of the division’s top teams, Betis has risen from 10th place, where they were on the day he signed, to sixth place thanks to his efforts.
The only team with more points during this period is Barcelona, whose 27 surpasses Betis’ 22. Atletico Madrid is all the way down in 10th place, while Real Madrid, who just lost to Manuel Pellegrini’s team, sits five points further adrift with 17 points over the same span.
The Top 10 La Liga Teams Since Antony Joined
Rank
Club
Played Games
Points
Goal Distinction
1.
Barcelona
9.
27
+25
2.
Betis Real
9.
22
+8
3.
Real Madrid
9.
17
+6
4.
Getafe
9.
16
+4
5.
Vigo Celta
8.
15.
+4
6.
Valencia
9.
15.
-4
7.
Bilbao Athletic
9.
14
+9.
8.
Villarreal
8.
14
+5
9.
Vallecano Rayo
9.
14
+2
10.
Real Madrid
9.
13.
3.
The fact that the Villamarin Stadium has seen a significant improvement since the Brazilian international’s arrival is not a coincidence, even though he is by no means the only factor contributing to this improvement in form.
Isco Comments on Potential Permanent Deal for Antony
The former Real Madrid star has made his feelings clear about his teammate
The impact that the attacker has had in Seville has impressed more than just fans. His colleagues are also involved, as former Real Madrid player Isco discussed the extent his team should go to in order to acquire the Brazilian on a long-term contract.
According to the BBC, the playmaker said in an interview with DAZN:
For him to stay for at least another year, we must raise money through crowdsourcing. Since he came, we’ve seen a transformation; he adds a lot to our lives. Having Antony here makes me joyful. His humility and willingness to lend a hand have shocked us all.
During Antony’s loan period, Betis is reportedly paying 84% of his salary. Additionally, a penalty charge is reportedly part of the agreement in case the winger fails to make a predetermined amount of appearances.
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