Antony Reflects on a Transformative Year in LaLiga

The year 2025, which concluded last night, will undoubtedly be remembered by Antony as a year of transformation. In January, he packed his bags and ended his tenure in England, leaving Manchester United to seek new opportunities in LaLiga, where he joined Real Betis on loan. This journey, which ultimately changed him profoundly, extended into the summer when he returned to Sevilla as a permanent player for the verdiblanco team, following a challenging summer of negotiations that came to fruition on the last day of the transfer window.

Antony has emerged as one of the stars of LaLiga and a key player for coach Manuel Pellegrini, contributing significantly with 17 goals and 10 assists over the year. He aims to continue his development at Betis, with aspirations to regain a spot on the Brazilian national team, hoping to persuade Carlo Ancelotti to include him in the squad for next summer’s World Cup. As he reflects on the past year in an emotional message shared on his social media profiles, he acknowledges his journey.

“2025 is not about perfection; it is about overcoming challenges. Every battle I won was supported by my family, my foundation, my strength. I cried, I smiled, I learned… and every fall taught me, every tear strengthened me. Today, I stand tall, knowing that everything was worth it,” the Brazilian shared. His reflection is accompanied by a hopeful intention for 2026: “May the new year bring courage to continue, faith to persevere, and gratitude so that all honor and glory be given to the Lord my God. We continue together, stronger.”

The number 7 for Betis closed the year unable to train with his teammates due to muscular fatigue. However, he is confident about recovering in time for an important match: the upcoming visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to face Real Madrid in matchday 18 of LaLiga EA Sports. If all goes as planned, this will be his first appearance at the Chamartín coliseum, a venue where he was unable to play during his time with Ajax or Manchester United in the Champions League, and where he also missed out last season with Betis after joining the club months following their visit to the capital.