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The Brazilian's Old Trafford exit was agreed shortly before the transfer window closed, with the winger joining Betis in a deal worth €22m that could potentially rise to €25m with add-ons.

After spending the second half of last season on loan at Betis, Antony found himself surplus to requirements as far as Ruben Amorim's plans for the 2025-26 campaign were concerned. 

He had been left out of United's touring party of the United States during pre-season and had trained separately from the first team as part of the so-called "bomb squad" at Carrington.

"Only my family knows how hard it was to be there," Antony said as he was presented at the LaLiga club.

"Training separately. But I knew this incredible moment was coming. Of course, I was afraid it wouldn't happen in the end, but I waited because I had so much faith."

Antony became a fan favourite on loan at Betis, scoring nine times in 26 games and helping the club to reach the Conference League final.

"[Making the transfer happen] was very hard, but we're here now. I can't wait to wear the Betis shirt again. I can only thank everyone who made it possible," Antony said.

"Now with more time, there are so many things to do and achieve. I had trouble sleeping after seeing so much love from the Betis fans; there were people waiting at my house at 2 in the morning."

After joining United from Ajax for £81.3m in 2022, Antony failed to live up to his price tag, scoring only 12 goals in 96 appearances for the club.

"Being cared about is very important to me; it is something money can't buy," Antony said.

"Here, I have had good feelings and felt lots of affection. It was always my first choice, and that's why I waited until the last day to return to Betis.

"Now I'm here and happy in a city and at a club that I love."