Antony admits he was embarrassed by Cristiano Ronaldo's physique during his time at Manchester United. The 26-year-old winger reflects on his high-profile €95 million move from Ajax.

What happened at Manchester United?

Antony's personal issues outside of football played a major role in his failure to justify his massive price tag before eventually departing for Betis.
He had some problems outside the pitch that hindered him, making it a complicated time.

Why it matters for Antony

Despite his struggles, he maintains a sense of gratitude towards the Red Devils, viewing the difficult experience as a vital catalyst for his recent professional maturity.
Antony learned a lot from his time at Manchester United, and being happy today at Betis is due to those difficult moments.

Mentorship from Cristiano Ronaldo

Antony developed a profound respect for Ronaldo's work ethic and light-hearted nature behind the scenes, recalling their relationship and a specific encounter in the club's facilities.
Ronaldo joked with Antony once, saying that people think he's stubborn, but in everyday life he's very playful.

Aiming for the global stage

Antony is now focused on maintaining his resurgence in Spain, having contributed 13 goals and nine assists in 41 appearances for Betis this season, as of June 2025.
He aims to secure a spot in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad, especially after not being called up to the Selecao since June 2025.
Antony feels far better prepared for a second tournament appearance than he was during his first outing in Qatar.
The winger's form is crucial for his World Cup ambitions, with Brazil seeking to make an impact on the global stage.
Antony's experience at Manchester United served as a learning experience, helping him mature as a player.
He does not regret going to Manchester United, and is grateful to the club for the opportunity.
Antony's time at Betis has been a resurgence, with the winger finding his form and contributing to the team's success.
The 2026 World Cup is a key target for Antony, who is determined to make an impact on the global stage.
Antony's story is one of perseverance and determination, as he seeks to overcome his past struggles and achieve success at the highest level.