How Antony became a Real Betis ‘hero’ after Manchester United sadness

Then United manager Ten Hag said in January last year that Antony’s form had been impacted by off-field issues.

The Brazilian was the subject of a police investigation after allegations of domestic abuse were made against him by three women. He denied the allegations, spoke to Greater Manchester Police voluntarily and was not arrested or charged in either Brazil or the UK.

Antony said his unhappiness affected his family life, describing the period as “very hard days for me”.

He added: “I was at home, not having the strength to even play with my son, going days without eating, staying locked in my room.

“It was very complicated, but thank God, with the help of my family and mainly with the help of God, I managed to get ahead and today I am very happy here.”

However, Balague does not expect Betis to be able to keep Antony because of the transfer fee United would demand.

“Manchester United won’t sell for less than 50m euros and Betis will be in Europe, but I think Antony belongs at Champions League level,” Balague told BBC Sport.

“They are going into the final with the idea of having nothing to lose. They’re in their first final, have a lot of quality, compete really well, battle for everything, follow the ideas of [coach Manuel] Pellegrini and their best players are reaching their best level.

“They are a formidable team, but Chelsea are favourites. Betis should enjoy the last minutes with Antony because he probably won’t stay.”