ANTONY kicked off his Real Betis career in style with a passionate celebration and a man of the match performance.
The Manchester United flop has joined the Spanish club on loan until the end of the season.
Antony made his debut in last night’s 2-2 draw with Athletic Bilbao.
And he made an instant impact, playing a crucial role in the opening goal of the game after just 14 minutes.
The Brazilian winger chased down an over-hit pass before cutting in and unleashing a powerful low shot.
His strike drew a save from Unai Simon and Isco was able to tap in the rebound for Betis.
Antony let out his emotion, turning to his new fans while smacking his chest and letting out a huge celebratory roar.
The £85million man continued to impress in the first-half and brilliantly created a chance for Johnny Cardoso with an-inch perfect through ball.
Antony, who managed 72 minutes before being subbed off for Abde Ezzalzouli, was given the man of the match award for his performance.
Man Utd fans were left shocked by the instant turnaround, with one saying: “Theatre of killing dreams.”
Another added: “United is a curse.”
More reacted: “Hopefully his performance will generate interest in him in the summer or make him a better player when he returns to United.”
Ex-Premier League boss and his new manager Manuel Pellegrini also praised Antony, saying: “I think it was a very positive debut. He’s a quality player.
“I was talking to him just before the game. I think a good player doesn’t have to be constantly showing off his skills with the ball.
“He has to play a good game, make few mistakes and do two or three important things: a goal, a good pass, a good cross.
“I think he was very involved today.
“He had just arrived a couple of days before and I think he’s going to contribute a lot to us.”
Betis reportedly do not have an option to buy included in the loan deal and United are still paying 16 per cent of his £200,000-a-week salary.
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