Real Madrid Fans Divided Over Lifting of Antony Ban

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Spanish journalist Manu Carreno has insisted that La Liga giants Real Madrid are not pleased after Real Betis winger Antony, who is on loan from Manchester United, had his red card reduced to a yellow on appeal.

Manchester United paid a substantial £82m to Ajax in 2022 to acquire Antony’s services, with the winger secured on a long-term contract.

However, his time at Old Trafford has not gone as planned, as he has underperformed significantly, scoring only five times in 62 Premier League appearances.

In the recent transfer window, the Red Devils decided to loan Antony out to Spanish side Real Betis for the remainder of the season, where he has made an impressive start, scoring three goals in six games.

Last weekend, however, Antony was sent off after a late challenge on a Getafe player in injury time, and he was set to miss the upcoming clash against Real Madrid.

Nevertheless, Real Betis successfully appealed against Antony’s red card, and the disciplinary committee has overturned the ban, much to the displeasure of the La Liga giants, as journalist Carreno emphasized.

“At Los Blancos, the decision of the Committee, which is historic, has not been received too well”, the journalist was quoted as saying by Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo.

“Because it is not only that the VAR whistles for the person on the field, which we are seeing many times, but it seems that the person on the field loses authority because the person on the VAR is the one who ends up deciding.”

Antony has quickly adapted to life in Spain and will be eager to make a significant impact against Real Madrid this weekend to further boost his confidence.

INSIDE FUTBOL SAYS:

Real Madrid are currently engaged in a fierce battle with Barcelona for the La Liga title, and Antony’s absence could have benefited La Casa Blanca, so their frustration is understandable.

Antony’s challenge on the Getafe player, although late and cynical, was arguably not enough to warrant a straight red card, as the challenge was not a high one.

Given the quality of Real Madrid’s squad, Antony’s presence should not make a significant difference if Los Blancos perform at their best.