David de Gea had high praise for former Manchester United teammate Antony after the Brazilian scored a sensational volley against him in the UEFA Conference League semi-final. The 25-year-old, who has enjoyed a resurgence since leaving United for Real Betis in January, grabbed the winner in the 64th minute of the first leg, helping the Spanish side secure a 2-1 victory over De Gea’s Fiorentina.
The goal, which thundered into the top-right corner, was especially impressive as Antony used his weaker right foot—a skill he rarely showcased during his time at Old Trafford. De Gea, who trained with Antony for years at United, was quick to acknowledge the improvement in his former teammate’s game.
“I trained with Antony 1,000 times and he never scored a goal with his right foot in any training session, but now he is full of confidence and proving the player he is,” De Gea said after the match. “I’m happy for him because he was coming from a difficult time at United, and now he’s showing the best of himself.”
Antony’s revival at Betis has been remarkable. Since his January loan move, he has scored six goals and provided four assists in 19 appearances. This is a stark contrast to his disappointing stint at United, where he managed just four goals and two assists in his last 18 months.
The winger’s £82million transfer from Ajax to Manchester United, signed by Erik ten Hag, has been widely regarded as one of the club’s less successful deals in recent years. Antony struggled to live up to his hefty price tag, but his impressive performances in Spain have made Real Betis eager to secure him on a permanent basis. However, United have reportedly set a £40m asking price for him, which Betis are yet to decide if they’re willing to meet.
Following the win, Betis legend Joaquin jokingly offered to “kidnap” Antony if needed to ensure he stays at the club, reflecting how highly valued the Brazilian now is. “I’ll provide the car if he has to be kidnapped, but let him stay no matter what!” Joaquin said.
De Gea also acknowledged that Antony is not the only former United player finding form after leaving the club. Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho have been enjoying their football at Aston Villa and Chelsea, respectively, while De Gea himself has been in solid form at Fiorentina, conceding just 41 goals in 37 games this season after his high-profile departure from Manchester United.
As for Antony, his resurgence in Spain has not only revitalized his career but also reminded fans of the potential he showed during his earlier years, leaving United to consider whether they might have sold him too soon. With the second leg of the semi-final set to take place in Florence next week, Antony will look to help Betis secure a spot in the final, where they could face Chelsea.