Antony: No Resentment Towards Those Who Disrespected Me at Man Utd; Thank Them for Teaching Me to Get Through Hard Times
Recently, Real Betis forward Antony discussed various topics about himself in an interview with Camel Live.
The Emotional Moment of Being Called Up to Brazil’s National Team in May This Year
"To be honest, this was more exciting than my first call-up—probably because of all the hardships I’ve been through. I burst into tears and had to calm down in my room before daring to go downstairs for dinner. I was extremely nervous when Coach Ancelotti read out the names. The moment I heard mine, my family and I were all in tears—we’ve been through so much to stage a comeback and return to the national team in such a short time at Betis."
World Cup Dream
"Although I’ve participated in one World Cup, playing in another has always been a dream. I’m full of anticipation for this moment because wearing the national team jersey and representing the entire country is such a source of pride. I know how many people support me and are represented by me. I do my duty here, maintain a peaceful mindset, and strive to make progress in every game and training session. I’m a person with high standards for myself; I’ll give my all as long as I can, and I’m always ready to wear the national team jersey again in 100% condition—playing in the World Cup again is my dream."
Helping Brazil Chase a Sixth World Cup Star
"I often dream of this scenario. Unfortunately, I was too young to witness the fifth star glory in 2002, and we were eliminated by Croatia in a penalty shootout after hitting the post in the last World Cup. But having a successful coach like Carlo Ancelotti is a huge help to the team. Of course, I dream of helping Brazil win the World Cup. I’ll keep working towards this goal and always be ready to fulfill the mission of playing in the World Cup for the second time."
The Essence of Regaining Happiness
"When I say I want to find 'Antony from the favela,' I mean reconnecting with my true self who is happy. The respect I’ve received at Betis has allowed me to regain the ability to smile—no matter how hard life was in the favela, I stayed happy. Now I can feel this kind of happiness again from small details."
Talking About His Final Days at Manchester United
"When I say I felt disrespected, it did involve certain people (I don’t want to name them specifically). I’m not someone who likes controversy, but that period was really tough—I had no pre-season training yet had to make my debut at the new club. Thank God I’ve always been strictly disciplined, so I was able to play the full 90 minutes in my Betis debut even though I hadn’t played a game in three or four months. The first team trained in the morning while I trained alone at 5 p.m.—being isolated from the team wasn’t easy."
"I really felt disrespected, but these are all experiences. I hold no resentment; this taught me how to deal with difficulties in the right way and with wisdom. In fact, I also thank Manchester United. Although there were tough times there, it also taught me how to cope with setbacks and get through hard times. Besides, I met many wonderful people. Manchester United was a great journey, and now I’m very happy at Betis."
Signature Spin Dribble
"First of all, it’s thanks to God, the company of my family, and the spirit of never giving up. I’m grateful to my parents for the education and growing environment they gave me—raising three children in the favela without them taking the wrong path wasn’t easy. Those of us who have lived there know how cruel reality can be, and we also know where that 'shortcut' leads."
"My persistent personality has also helped me (laughs). I’ve always been a stubborn child since I was young, always facing difficulties head-on. For example, when I was bullied while playing football in the favela, I would rush forward even more bravely. This persistence helped me enter the Brazil national team, land in Europe, and achieve what I have today. I think apart from family education, my own wisdom and perseverance are also crucial."
The Spiritual Significance of the Favela
"The favela is a place I deeply love, and I want to make that clear to everyone. I will always love and remember this place; it has taught me so much. It carries my roots because I know the hardships of life. When any resident of the favela achieves success, that’s also my victory—because I know how difficult it is."
"The favela constantly motivates me to run more, improve my stats, score goals and assist—because in the end, I represent all of them. This is not an accident; the name of the favela is always printed on my football boots. It’s a place I will love forever. Whenever I have time during vacations, I go back. It’s the source that nourishes me. It allows me to see who I used to be and witness how I became the Antony I am today through past experiences. Every time I look at them, I understand that no matter where I am, I will always represent all the people from the favelas."
