Former Manchester United winger Antony has revealed that his compatriot and new United signing, Matheus Cunha, personally begged him to stay at Old Trafford before his permanent transfer to Real Betis this summer.
Former Teammate Cunha Urged Antony to Stay at Manchester United
In an interview with Spanish publication AS, Antony confirmed that Cunha was eager for them to play together.
“Matheus Cunha wanted me to play there with him, but the situation was already very difficult,” Antony stated.
“I’m very fond of him”.
Antony’s departure from United seemed inevitable after a challenging period. Following his £82 million move from Ajax in 2022, the Brazilian struggled to consistently perform.
His fortunes failed to improve after the sacking of his former manager, Erik ten Hag, in October 2024.
When Ruben Amorim took over as head coach, his system was not conducive to wingers, and Antony was loaned to Real Betis in January 2025. This loan spell revitalized his career and form, leading to a permanent move to the Spanish club this summer.
Antony also shed light on his strained relationship with Amorim during his final months at United.
While he trained separately from the first team and awaited a transfer, he claimed there was little communication with the boss.
“I didn’t talk much with Rúben Amorim; we didn’t have much contact,” Antony said.
“His decision to have me train separately. But it had to be respected. Today I’m fine, I took care of myself by training well even though I was separated.
After three months, I played 90 minutes and that’s the result of what I was working towards”.
Despite Cunha’s efforts to convince him to stay, Antony’s move to Real Betis was finalized on transfer deadline day, closing a difficult chapter in England and marking a fresh start in Spain.
