Real Betis’ Isco Jokes About Crowdfunding to Keep Manchester United Loanee Antony
In the world of football, where player transfers and loans are as common as a corner kick, Real Betis midfielder Isco has added a touch of humor to the mix. After a thrilling 2-1 victory against Sevilla in Sunday’s derby, Isco quipped that crowdfunding might be necessary to keep Antony, the talented Brazilian winger on loan from Manchester United, at the club for another season.
Antony has been a revelation in Spain since his arrival, following a challenging start to the season at Old Trafford. His loan to Betis, however, does not include an option for the Spanish club to make his stay permanent this summer. This has left fans and teammates alike hoping for a way to extend his time in Seville.
Isco, with a smile, said, “We need to crowdfund so he can stay at least another year,” when asked about Antony’s future after the derby win. It’s a sentiment that resonates with many at the club, given Antony’s impressive performances.
At 25, Antony is contracted with Manchester United until June 2027. During his time with Betis, he has scored four goals and provided four assists in just 12 appearances, making a significant impact on the team’s success.
Real Betis have already expressed their desire to keep Antony beyond this season. Isco, a former Spain international, believes Antony has brought a positive change to the team. “I’m happy to be able to enjoy Antony,” Isco said. “He has surprised us all with his humility and with his willingness to help and add. We have noticed a change since he arrived. We are happy for him and for the team.”
Antony’s influence was evident in the derby against Sevilla, where he didn’t score but still stood out. His post-match celebration, waving the club’s flag, delighted the home crowd and further endeared him to the fans.
Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini also praised Antony, saying, “I’m very happy for Antony. He is a great player, who had gone through a complicated spell.” Antony’s time at Manchester United saw him score only 12 goals in 96 appearances since his £85 million transfer from Ajax in 2022. Pellegrini added, “He is young, he has a lot to give to football. It has helped his game to play alongside players like Isco, [Giovanni] Lo Celso, William Carvalho…”
For Antony, the focus remains on the present. “What I am most happy about is having found myself and I found myself here,” he said after Sunday’s game. “I’m grateful for the affection I’ve received since I arrived. I’m very happy here. My head is at Betis. I’m enjoying every day the city, the club… Let’s continue like this.”
Sunday’s victory marked Betis’ sixth consecutive league win, solidifying their sixth place in LaLiga. The team now faces a challenging match against league leaders Barcelona on Saturday.
- Antony’s Stats at Betis: 4 goals, 4 assists in 12 appearances
- Contract with Manchester United until June 2027
- Betis’ Current LaLiga Position: 6th
As the season progresses, the question remains: will Betis find a way to keep Antony beyond his loan period? For now, fans can only hope and perhaps start considering Isco’s crowdfunding suggestion as a lighthearted yet earnest plea to retain their newfound star.
Originally Written by: Adriana Garcia
