Manchester United hero Cristiano Ronaldo was keen on linking up with former Red Devils team-mate Antony, but the winger ultimately went back to Real Betis and was reduced to tears at his unveiling
Cristiano Ronaldo hoped Antony would join him at Al-Nassr before the Man United winger moved to Real Betis instead(Image: Eurasia Sport Images, Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo was left gutted after Manchester United flop Antony opted to join Real Betis rather than teaming up with him in Saudi Arabia. It’s reported the Old Trafford legend was keen to see Antony become an Al-Nassr player before the winger chose to return to Spain instead.
Antony’s turbulent three-year stint in England officially concluded on Monday following United’s agreement to a bargain sale to Betis. The Brazilian had spent the second half of last season on loan in Seville and re-joined Los Verdiblancos for £19million, less than a quarter of the £82m fee United gave Ajax for his services in 2022.
However, well before his Betis return was finalised, Antony was believed to have attracted interest from Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr outfit. Five-time Ballon d’Or-winner Ronaldo was reportedly supportive of the transfer, having briefly been teammates with Antony at United.
Speaking on Radio Marca, journalist Marcos Bernat revealed details of Al-Nassr’s pursuit: “There were negotiations with Al-Nassr, the player heard about the interest, and Cristiano’s entourage even took it for granted. At that point, Cristiano was in favour of the move, and they let the player know.”
Ultimately, Al-Nassr shifted their attention to alternative targets, including the more budget-friendly Kingsley Coman. This allowed Betis to reopen discussions for a deal, which eventually materialised on deadline day, reports The Mirror.
It’s understood 2026 World Cup selection was another key consideration for Antony, making it crucial to stay in Europe. This would boost his chances of being picked by new Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, who left Antony out of his most recent squad.
Ex-United winger Antony grew teary at his Betis presentation(Image: Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
The winger appeared visibly moved when he was introduced to the Betis supporters for a second time. However, on this occasion, he had joined the club permanently and became tearful while speaking about the challenges he encountered in England.
“Only my family knows how hard it was to be there,” he said as he wept during his unveiling on Tuesday. “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.”
A switch to the Saudi Pro League could have offered Antony a better opportunity to shine once more. However, having already made his mark during his six-month loan spell in Spain, he can depart England knowing he’s in a good setting to recover under Manuel Pellegrini.
Ronaldo and Antony were team-mates for a time at Old Trafford(Image: Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Antony has also subsequently said he rejected an approach from Bayern Munich to return to Betis. That’s despite the fact the move would have come with a slight pay increase compared to his terms at United.
He told Cadena Cope this week: “One day before the deal was completed, I spoke to the people at Bayern But when I spoke to Bayern, I told them that the deal with Betis was 95% complete, and that I would honour my word.
“I would do so out of respect and love and because I know that I am very happy here. I don’t know if they were offering me [£6m salary, or £115,000 a week]. With all respect I have for Bayern, which is a world-class club, I am at ease with the decision I’ve taken. I don’t know what will happen in the future but I feel very calm about the decision I’ve taken.”
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