Update: |Real Betis stance on Antony transfer confirmed as Man United await final decision News

Manchester United winger Antony has been a breath of fresh air for Real Betis this year after joining during the January transfer window

Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini has admitted that it will not be easy for his club to sign Manchester United winger Antony in the summer – but he refused to rule out a deal.

The Brazilian endured a difficult spell at Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag and he was given the green light to leave on loan in January by Ruben Amorim. After moving to Seville, Antony took the opportunity to reboot his career in Spain and has flourished under the management of Pellegrini.

In 12 appearances for the La Liga club, the 25-year-old has scored four goals and grabbed four assists leading him to become a fan favourite. After beating Sevilla in the derby, Antony led the celebrations and his teammate Isco joked that Real Betis will need to set up a crowdfunding campaign to keep the United man in Spain.

However, following the comment from Isco, Pellegrini took a more realistic stance on signing the winger. “We’ve all seen what Antony has done here with the team, and I hope he can stay, although we know it won’t be easy,” the 71-year-old said.

“He’s fitted in very well with the team’s collective play and has had important individual performances. I think the important thing now for Antony and everyone else is to focus on winning the next three points and trying to achieve a bigger goal, which of course would perhaps change the club’s financial situation, playing in the Champions League or reaching higher levels in European competitions.

“And based on that reality, we’ll then see what the best squad is to face next season.” Currently, Betis are the in-form team in La Liga and they sit sixth ahead of Saturday night’s trip to Barcelona.

Due to Spanish clubs’ performances in European competition this season, La Liga is on track to gain an extra Champions League qualifying spot alongside the Premier League. Betis are one of the favourites to win the Conference League, alongside Chelsea, and should they continue to progress in the competition that will help their case.

Betis are level on points with fifth-placed Villarreal who could occupy the final Champions League spot at the end of the season. If Spain do not gain an extra Champions League spot, Betis are currently on track to qualify for the Conference League again.

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