Antony, the Brazilian winger who left Manchester United this summer, has accused the club of showing him “a lack of respect” in the months leading up to his exit.
The 25-year-old, now back at Real Betis after a successful loan spell, said his final days at Old Trafford were marked by cold treatment and silence from those around him.
“I think there was a bit of a lack of respect there, even a bit of rudeness too, with no one giving you a good morning or a good afternoon,” Antony told ESPN Brasil on Friday. “Not even that.”
Antony had been left out of United’s pre-season tour and told to train away from the first team after new manager Rúben Amorim deemed him surplus to requirements. It marked an unceremonious end to a turbulent spell in England following his £95 million move from Ajax in 2022.
At the time, United hoped Antony would be a key piece in their rebuild. But his three seasons at Old Trafford never quite lived up to expectations. He managed only 12 goals in 96 appearances, with most of his bright moments coming early in his first campaign.
“I am a man who accepts my responsibilities,” Antony said. “I think off-field matters affected me a lot, in my performance. I know my potential, I know my qualities. I didn’t play in a World Cup for nothing.”
Despite the frustrations, Antony insists he has moved on. “That’s in the past,” he said. “Now I’m here, at Betis. I’m happy. That’s the most important thing for me.”
The winger’s departure closes a difficult chapter for both player and club. United, under Amorim, are trying to rebuild a more disciplined and balanced squad, while Antony seeks a fresh start in Spain—one far removed from the scrutiny of Manchester.
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