Real Betis winger Antony has disclosed that he was “very close” to joining Liverpool as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah before ultimately signing for Manchester United. The Brazilian forward, who has since become one of the most exciting talents in La Liga, opened up about the near-miss transfer in a candid interview, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes negotiations that could have dramatically altered the trajectory of his career.
Antony’s admission offers a fascinating glimpse into the high-stakes world of football transfers, where a single decision can change the course of a player’s life and the fortunes of a club. Speaking about the near-move to Anfield, Antony revealed that discussions with Liverpool were at an advanced stage, with the Reds viewing him as a potential successor to Salah, who had been linked with a move away from the club at the time. “It was a very real possibility,” Antony said. “Liverpool is a fantastic club with an incredible history, and the idea of playing under Jürgen Klopp was very appealing. But in the end, things didn’t work out, and I’m happy with the path I’ve taken.”
The 23-year-old’s journey to Real Betis has been anything but conventional. After bursting onto the scene in his native Brazil with São Paulo, Antony attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. His electrifying pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal made him one of the most sought-after young talents in world football. However, it was Manchester United who ultimately won the race for his signature, securing his services in a deal worth €80 million in the summer of 2022.
Antony’s time at Old Trafford, however, was marked by mixed fortunes. While he showed flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency and struggles to adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League led to criticism from fans and pundits alike. After two seasons in England, he made the decision to seek a fresh start, joining Real Betis in a move that has since reignited his career. In La Liga, Antony has rediscovered his best form, becoming a key player for the Seville-based club and earning plaudits for his performances.
Reflecting on his time at Manchester United, Antony expressed no regrets but acknowledged the challenges he faced. “Playing for Manchester United was a dream come true, but it was also a big adjustment,” he said. “The Premier League is very demanding, and I had to learn a lot about myself as a player and as a person. I’m grateful for the experience, and it has made me stronger.”
The revelation about his near-move to Liverpool has sparked widespread speculation about what might have been. At the time, Salah’s future at Anfield was the subject of intense scrutiny, with reports linking the Egyptian superstar with a move to Saudi Arabia or Spain. While Salah ultimately stayed at Liverpool, the club’s interest in Antony highlights their proactive approach to planning for the future. For Antony, the opportunity to join one of the most successful clubs in English football was a tantalizing prospect, but fate had other plans.
Liverpool’s loss has been Real Betis’ gain, as Antony has flourished in La Liga, showcasing the talent that made him one of the most exciting prospects in world football. His performances have been instrumental in Betis’ push for European qualification, with the winger contributing goals, assists, and moments of magic that have endeared him to the club’s passionate fanbase. “I feel at home here,” Antony said. “The style of play suits me, and the supporters have been incredible. I’m focused on helping the team achieve its goals and continuing to improve as a player.”
The story of Antony’s near-move to Liverpool is a reminder of the fine margins that define football careers. Had the transfer materialized, it could have reshaped the landscape of the Premier League and the fortunes of both Liverpool and Manchester United. For Liverpool, the decision to stick with Salah has been vindicated, as the Egyptian continues to deliver world-class performances. For Manchester United, Antony’s departure represents a missed opportunity to unlock his full potential, but the club’s loss has been Betis’ gain.
As Antony looks to the future, his focus remains on continuing his development and achieving success with Real Betis. “I’m still young, and I have a lot to learn,” he said. “But I’m hungry to improve and to win trophies. I believe in this team and what we can achieve together.”
For football fans, Antony’s revelation is a fascinating insight into the what-ifs and near-misses that shape the sport. It’s a reminder that behind every transfer, there are countless stories of negotiations, decisions, and moments of fate that determine the path a player’s career will take. As Antony continues to shine in La Liga, his journey serves as a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the enduring allure of football’s endless possibilities.
In the end, while Antony may have come close to joining Liverpool, his story is far from over. With his talent, determination, and the support of Real Betis, the Brazilian winger has the potential to write a new chapter in his career—one that could see him fulfill the promise that once made him one of the most coveted young players in the world. For now, the football world will watch with interest as Antony continues to carve out his legacy, one dazzling run and decisive goal at a time.
