Antony: Biography, Net Worth, Salary, And Transfer History

Antony Matheus dos Santos, commonly known as Antony, was born on 24 February 2000 in São Paulo, Brazil. Raised in the favelas of Osasco, a suburb of São Paulo, Antony grew up in a challenging environment. Despite the difficulties of his surroundings, his natural ability with a football stood out from an early age. He often played street football barefoot, where he developed close control, dribbling skills, and the flair that would later become his trademark on the professional stage.

Antony joined the youth academy of São Paulo FC, one of Brazil’s biggest and most prestigious clubs, at a young age. His raw speed, agility, and ability to take on defenders one-on-one quickly caught the attention of coaches. Rising through the youth ranks, he became known for his confidence on the ball, quick feet, and a left foot capable of both scoring and creating.

In 2018, Antony made his professional debut for São Paulo’s senior team. Though still very young, he impressed fans with his daring style of play and willingness to take responsibility in attacking areas. Over the following seasons, Antony’s performances attracted attention beyond Brazil, with European scouts closely monitoring his progress.

His breakout year came in 2019, when he played a key role in São Paulo’s run in domestic competitions, showcasing pace, trickery, and an ability to both score and assist. By 2020, it was clear that Antony was destined for European football, and Ajax Amsterdam came calling.

Move to Ajax (2020)

In February 2020, Ajax completed the signing of Antony from São Paulo FC for a fee of around €15.75 million. This move was widely seen as a stepping stone for the young Brazilian to reach the elite level of European football.

Ajax, known for nurturing young talent, proved to be the perfect platform for Antony. Under Erik ten Hag, he flourished almost immediately. His ability to cut inside from the right flank onto his stronger left foot became a hallmark of his game.

During his time in the Eredivisie, Antony contributed with goals, assists, and consistent attacking performances. He also gained experience in the UEFA Champions League, where he tested himself against the best defenders in Europe. His flair, combined with Ajax’s attacking style, made him one of the standout young wingers in European football.

By 2022, Antony had already lifted domestic trophies with Ajax and had established himself as a key player for both club and country, earning call-ups to the Brazilian national team. His success attracted the interest of Manchester United, then managed by his former Ajax boss, Erik ten Hag.

Transfer to Manchester United (2022)

In September 2022, Antony secured a blockbuster transfer to Manchester United. The deal was worth an initial €95 million (around £82 million), with potential add-ons increasing the figure even further. This made Antony one of the most expensive signings in Manchester United’s history, as well as one of the highest-priced exports from the Dutch Eredivisie.

He signed a contract running until June 2027, with an option to extend for an additional year. Expectations were sky-high, as United saw him as a key figure to revitalize their attack under Erik ten Hag.

Life at United

Antony’s United career started brightly. He scored on his debut against Arsenal in September 2022 and showed glimpses of his flair with his trademark dribbles, stepovers, and curling efforts from the right wing. However, as the season progressed, criticisms emerged.

Fans and pundits questioned his consistency, decision-making, and physicality in the Premier League. While he had moments of brilliance, such as spectacular goals in European fixtures, Antony struggled to deliver consistently at the level expected of an €95m signing.

By the 2023–24 season, while he remained a part of United’s rotation, it was clear that he had not yet fully adapted to the Premier League’s intensity. This set the stage for loan discussions and, eventually, a significant change in his career trajectory.

Loan and Permanent Move to Real Betis (2025)

In early 2025, Antony was loaned out to Real Betis in Spain’s La Liga. The loan move was partly designed to give him a fresh start, away from the immense pressure at Old Trafford.

At Betis, Antony began to rediscover his form. The less physically demanding but highly technical nature of La Liga suited him well. He contributed with goals and assists, re-establishing confidence and reminding fans of his raw talent.

Recognizing his value, Real Betis negotiated a permanent deal with Manchester United ahead of the 2025–26 season. The agreement was finalized for around €25 million, with United inserting a 50% sell-on clause. This meant that if Betis were to sell Antony in the future, half of the profit would go back to United.

While United sold Antony for significantly less than they paid, the transfer gave the player a chance to start afresh in an environment where he could thrive. Betis offered him a five-year contract lasting until 2030, signaling their belief in his long-term value.

Salary & Earnings

At Manchester United

When Antony first joined Manchester United in 2022, he reportedly earned around £200,000 per week, equivalent to £10.4 million annually before taxes and bonuses. This salary placed him among the higher earners in the squad.

However, by the 2024–25 season, financial documents and reports suggested his weekly wage had been adjusted closer to £105,000 per week (£5.46 million annually). The discrepancy may have been due to performance-related clauses, restructuring, or wage adjustments made internally by the club.

At Real Betis

Following his move to Real Betis in 2025, Antony signed a lucrative five-year contract. His base salary at Betis is estimated to be around €6.25 million per year (approximately €120,000 per week). While slightly lower than his peak salary at United, this remains a highly competitive wage, making him one of Betis’ top earners.

Net Worth

As of 2025, Antony’s net worth is estimated at £25–30 million. His wealth is derived from several sources:

• Club salaries: The biggest contributor, with high wages from both Manchester United and now Real Betis.

• Endorsements: Like many Brazilian internationals, Antony has attracted sponsorships and endorsements, though specific details are less publicized.

• Bonuses and performance incentives: Tied to appearances, goals, and club achievements.

• Image rights: Marketability as a Brazilian winger playing in Europe adds significant value.

Despite being sold for a lower transfer fee than United paid, Antony has secured financial stability thanks to his contracts. If he continues to perform well in Spain, his net worth will likely grow through both salary and potential sponsorship deals.

Transfer History Summary

Performance, Criticism & Public Perception

Antony’s career so far has been a mix of highs and lows. At his best, he is an electrifying winger capable of dazzling dribbles, cutting in to unleash dangerous shots, and linking play creatively. His goal against Arsenal on debut for United showed his quality.

However, criticism has often followed him. At Manchester United, he was scrutinized for:

• Lack of consistency – brilliant in one game, anonymous in the next.

• Predictability – defenders often anticipated his trademark cut-ins.

• Physicality – struggling at times against stronger, faster Premier League defenders.

Still, at just 25 years old, Antony has time on his side. The move to Betis could be exactly what he needs to reignite his career, away from the immense pressure that came with his price tag at Old Trafford.

What’s Next for Antony?

The next phase of Antony’s career is crucial. At Betis, he has the opportunity to:

1. Rebuild confidence – consistent performances will help him silence critics.

2. Develop further – improve decision-making and versatility.

3. Boost market value – strong performances in La Liga or European competitions could attract bigger clubs again.

4. Secure endorsement deals – success on the pitch could increase his global profile, especially given his Brazilian roots.

If he thrives at Betis, there’s every chance he could return to the spotlight and perhaps earn another big move before his peak years are over.

Conclusion

Antony’s journey so far is one of immense talent, high expectations, and valuable lessons. From the favelas of São Paulo to Ajax’s development system, to the Premier League spotlight at Manchester United, and now a new chapter with Real Betis, his career has been full of drama.

Financially, Antony remains a wealthy player with an estimated net worth of £25–30 million. While Manchester United’s investment did not yield the expected returns, his move to Betis presents both a fresh opportunity and a chance to prove doubters wrong.

At just 25, Antony is entering the prime of his career. If he finds consistency and confidence, he could still fulfill the promise that once made him one of the most expensive wingers in the world.