Isco proposes crowdfunding to retain Antony at Real Betis
- Antony joined Real Betis on loan from Manchester United in January 2025 after underperforming at his previous club.
- He has had a significant impact since arriving, scoring two goals and providing two assists in his first four games.
- Isco advocates for a crowdfunding campaign to help Betis afford Antony's permanent transfer, reflecting the team's commitment to keeping him.
In Spain, Real Betis midfielder Isco has made an unusual request for the club to consider initiating a crowdfunding campaign to secure the services of Manchester United loanee Antony for at least one more season. Antony, who moved to Betis on loan in January 2025, had struggled at Manchester United, failing to meet the high expectations placed on him and managing just one goal in 14 matches. However, his recent form for Real Betis has been impressive, as he has started every game since his arrival and recorded two goals and two assists in just four matches. Antony's resurgence in La Liga has not only revitalized his career but also helped lift Betis into sixth place, a position that keeps their Champions League qualification hopes alive. As Antony continues to impress, Isco expressed his admiration for the Brazilian, highlighting the forward's humility, willingness to contribute to the team, and the positive influence he brings to their performances. Isco's comments reflect a growing sentiment among the Betis squad and fans that Antony has successfully overcome his troubles at Manchester United by rediscovering his form in Spain. The hope is to extend his loan spell beyond the current season, though there are concerns regarding the financial aspects of a potential permanent transfer, given that Manchester United demands at least £40 million for a player they acquired for £85 million. Moreover, Isco's notion of crowdfunding represents an innovative yet unconventional approach to addressing the financial challenges faced by the club in securing Antony's services. It also underscores the desperation of Real Betis to retain a player who has evidently had a transformative impact on the team's fortunes. With the club experiencing the pressure of potential competition from other teams seeking to acquire Antony, this crowdfunding idea signals the lengths to which Isco and the club are willing to go to ensure continued success. In summary, Real Betis is in a predicament. While Antony appears revitalized and crucial to their ongoing quest for European qualification, the club's financial constraints could limit their ability to sign the player permanently. Isco's call for crowdfunding not only illustrates the collective desire to keep Antony but also highlights the unique challenges and creative solutions emerging within the realm of player transfers in modern football.