Spanish media react to Antony’s performance in Real Betis debut vs Levante

Spanish media react to Antony’s performance in his Real Betis debut against Levante.

Antony
Image Credits: Imago Images

Manchester United continue to dominate headlines with Ruben Amorim searching for answers to their sluggish league start, but there was another familiar Old Trafford face making news elsewhere in Europe.

United fans keeping an eye on their former winger witnessed a mixed reaction in Spain after his second Real Betis debut.

Antony’s return to LaLiga came in dramatic fashion and the Spanish press did not hold back in their assessment.

The Brazilian made his official comeback on matchday four in a pulsating 2-2 draw at the Ciudad de Valencia.

The hosts Levante raced into a two-goal lead inside the first ten minutes, only for Betis to claw their way back through Colombian forward Cucho Hernandez and ex-West Ham midfielder Pablo Fornals.

In a game that kept the home crowd on their feet, Antony stayed on for the entire 90 minutes and was heavily involved across the pitch.

According to Sofascore data, the 25-year-old touched the ball 72 times, completing 33 of 46 passes at a 72% accuracy rate.

He produced two key passes, whipped in six crosses, and made two long passes.

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His attacking intent was clear, registering three shots on target, one off target and two blocked, while being fouled three times.

He lost possession 21 times but remained a constant presence in Betis’s attacking half.

Despite the numbers, Estadio Deportivo handed Antony a lowly 5/10, remarking: “He didn’t receive many balls, so he barely appeared, except from set pieces, before the break.

“He was inaccurate, in any case, and couldn’t find partners.

“He had a better understanding with Lo Celso, although he was erratic when shooting at goal.”

DAZN took a more positive stance, writing: “In his first game back, he suffered from a lack of rhythm, although he managed to complete the full 90 minutes and never stopped trying.

“While he wasn’t yet at his best, he showed flashes of form and connected well with Bellerin on the right wing.

“With minutes and continuity, he’s destined to be one of the most exciting players for Betis fans.”

However, Mundo Deportivo were far from impressed, giving Antony just two stars for his display.

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