🚨 Manchester United Issue Antony Ultimatum: Accept €30M–€40M Offer This Week or Face Stint in the Stands Until January — Real Betis Eye Late Loan Move
Manchester United have taken a decisive and somewhat ruthless stance in their dealings with Brazilian winger Antony, issuing an ultimatum that could shape the rest of his season — and possibly his career at Old Trafford. According to emerging reports, the club have made it clear: accept a €30 million–€40 million transfer offer this week or be prepared to sit in the stands until January.
This firm deadline comes amid growing tension surrounding Antony’s future, with La Liga side Real Betis circling for a potential loan move later in the window. United’s management, however, want the matter resolved now, reflecting both sporting and financial urgency.
Background: Antony’s Journey at Manchester United
When Antony arrived from Ajax in 2022 for a hefty €95 million fee, he was one of Erik ten Hag’s marquee signings. The Brazilian had shone brightly in the Eredivisie, known for his flair, dribbling, and quick feet. Expectations were enormous, especially with the hefty price tag and the familiarity with Ten Hag’s tactical demands.
However, two seasons into his United career, Antony’s time in England has been mixed at best. While he has delivered moments of skill and occasional game-changing contributions, his numbers — in terms of goals and assists — have not lived up to expectations. In 48 Premier League appearances, his output has been modest, sparking frustration among sections of the fanbase and the club hierarchy.
Why the Ultimatum Now?
Manchester United’s decision to set a hard deadline stems from several factors:
- Underwhelming Performances
United’s attack has lacked consistency, and Antony’s inability to deliver end product regularly has made him expendable in the eyes of management. - Financial Pressure
With Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules and squad rebuild plans in mind, United are seeking funds to reinvest in priority areas. Moving Antony now for €30M–€40M would free up wage space and provide a transfer budget boost. - Squad Reshaping Under Ten Hag
The manager has shown willingness to part ways with even his former Ajax players if they no longer fit his vision. Competition on the wings from Alejandro Garnacho, Amad Diallo, and others has reduced Antony’s importance. - Avoiding a Long-Drawn Saga
The club want clarity before the window closes to avoid distraction. A drawn-out situation could affect dressing-room dynamics.
The €30M–€40M Offer
While the exact bidding club hasn’t been publicly confirmed, sources indicate that interest is coming from both Europe and the Middle East. For United, the €30M–€40M range is far below what they paid Ajax, but recouping some value now is preferable to letting the player’s market worth decline further through inactivity.
Some fans see this as a financial loss too steep to justify, while others argue that cutting losses now could save the club in the long run — both in wages and squad space.
Real Betis: The Waiting Game
Spanish side Real Betis have been linked with Antony for weeks. Their interest, however, is primarily in a loan deal, potentially with an option to buy. The La Liga outfit believe they could swoop in late in the window, once United’s desperation to move the player grows.
From Betis’ perspective, Antony could be an exciting fit in their attacking setup, providing width and flair in a league that suits technical wingers. But United’s insistence on a permanent transfer — or at least a loan with a binding purchase clause — clashes with Betis’ preference for a low-risk temporary move.
The Stands Until January Threat
Manchester United’s message is clear: if Antony refuses to accept a move in the next few days, he will be sidelined until the January transfer window. This is a bold stance, but not unprecedented.
Football clubs occasionally bench players to push through exits when their presence no longer aligns with the team’s plans. However, such decisions come with risks:
- Player Value Decline — Extended inactivity can reduce a player’s market price.
- Dressing Room Disruption — Benching a high-profile player can spark unrest among teammates.
- PR Fallout — Fans may view the decision as unnecessarily harsh, particularly if Antony expresses willingness to fight for his place.
Fan Reactions and Divided Opinions
On social media, Manchester United fans are split:
- Pro-Ultimatum Camp: Some believe the club must act decisively to avoid stagnation. “No more passengers” has been a recurring phrase among supporters who want underperforming players moved on quickly.
- Against-Ultimatum Camp: Others feel Antony hasn’t had enough stability to truly prove himself, citing adaptation issues, off-field distractions, and tactical inconsistency as mitigating factors.
A number of fans also point fingers at Ten Hag, arguing that as the man who pushed for Antony’s signing, the manager bears responsibility for his struggles.
Possible Outcomes Before the Deadline
With the clock ticking, a few scenarios could unfold:
- Permanent Transfer — United secure a €30M–€40M sale to a European or Middle Eastern club, Antony leaves this week, and funds are reinvested.
- Late Loan with Obligatory Buy — Real Betis (or another club) agree to take Antony on loan with a binding purchase clause next summer.
- Loan Without Obligation — United reluctantly agree to a pure loan to avoid him sitting idle, though this is their least preferred option.
- Staying at United — Antony refuses all moves, ending up frozen out until January.
What This Means for Antony’s Career
At 24, Antony is at a critical juncture. A move now — especially to a league like La Liga — could reignite his career. A fresh environment, new tactical setup, and less physical league might allow his creativity to flourish.
However, if he stays at Old Trafford without playing time, his sharpness and confidence could deteriorate, making it harder to find a suitable move later.
The Broader Message from Manchester United
Beyond Antony’s case, this ultimatum signals a broader cultural shift at Manchester United. For years, critics accused the club of holding on to underperforming players too long, paying high wages for minimal returns.
By setting hard deadlines and being willing to sideline players, United are attempting to enforce accountability and performance-based squad building — a principle that modern elite clubs like Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid have mastered.
January Window Implications
If Antony remains until January, both parties face uncertainty. United may revisit talks with interested clubs, but the market is often more limited mid-season. Antony’s lack of match fitness could also put off potential buyers.
From a tactical standpoint, Ten Hag would be operating with a winger slot effectively unavailable, increasing reliance on Garnacho, Rashford, Amad, and potentially new signings.
Final Thoughts
The Antony ultimatum is a bold, high-stakes move that reflects Manchester United’s urgent need to streamline their squad and reinforce with players who fit their long-term vision. Whether it results in a quick sale, a loan move, or a stand-off until January, the decision will have consequences not just for Antony’s career but also for United’s transfer strategy moving forward.
As the days tick down before the window closes, the football world watches to see who blinks first: Antony, seeking a fresh start, or Manchester United, holding firm on their stance.
