EXCLUSIVE Antony found the back of the net again for Real Betis during a losing effort against Barcelona – and
The moment Antony touched down in Seville, he was “adored instantly.”
Hundreds of Real Betis fans turned the night sky their shade of green as they flocked to Seville airport to catch one more glimpse of their new hero. It was his second spell at the club – and fans had already fallen in love.
He was back up to his tricks on Saturday evening, after serving a suspension for their derby with Sevilla, finding the net against La Liga giants Barcelona. “The moment he stepped off the plane, hundreds of fans were there,” Terry Gibson told Daily Star Sport .
Gibson, who now works as a commentator for La Liga, added: “They loved that they were getting a Brazilian from Manchester United.
“Pellegrini wanted him, the players welcomed him, the fans worshipped him – he felt wanted again. And he hit the ground running!”
He added: “Some people criticised him at Manchester United and used his success at Betis to say the Premier League must be stronger, but I think the style in Spain suits him.”
In ten La Liga games this season, Antony has found the net five times – chipping with an assist as Betis find themselves sixth in the table.
Betis have been pushing for a spot in the Champions League under Pellegrini – a competition they last graced in the 2005/06 season.
“It might be a push,” Gibson admitted. “Real Sociedad and Villarreal have a bit of an advantage at the moment. But Betis are heading in the right direction.
“Financially, they’re stronger and can attract players they couldn’t a few years ago. They have a massive fanbase – 50,000 to 60,000 regularly.
“People in the UK sometimes don’t realise how big Betis are. With how the clubs run, they’re really progressive. Fantastic manager, lots of ex-Premier League players, and they’re pushing.
“Top four is possible, and it’s their dream.”
La Liga is available for fans in the UK to watch on Premier Sports.