“I’ll provide the car if he has to be kidnapped, but let him stay no matter what,” said Real Betis legend Joaquin on Antony.
Such is the impact the Manchester United winger – on loan at the Spanish outfit – has had in Betis colours so far in the ongoing 2024-25 season.
After joining Real Betis in the January transfer window, Antony has been a huge part of the team which is trying to book a UEFA Champions League spot by finishing in the top four in the La Liga. Moreover, the Brazilian has netted four goals and provided three assists in eight appearances in the Conference League, helping Betis reach the final where it will meet Premier League club Chelsea.
The 25-year-old has the chance to have the distinction of becoming the first player to become a double European champion in the same season, and can do so by winning both the Conference and the Europa League titles.
But, how can he do it?
How can Antony win both Europa and Conference League?
Winning the UEFA Conference League is straightforward for Antony. Help Real Betis beat Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea in the summit clash and he will have his medal.
On the second tier of European club football, Antony’s parent club Manchester United breezed past Athletic Bilbao to set up an all-English final against Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League.
For the Red Devils, Antony merely played just above 120 minutes in the Europa League this season. However, according to UEFA, “The winning team is presented with 50 gold medals and the runner-up with 50 silver medals.”
If United beats Spurs then there’s a chance that Antony can be given one of the winner’s medals when he returns to Carrington at the end of his loan deal.
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com