Manchester United winger Antony could become the first player to set an impressive record that may never again be achieved.
Since departing from United in January to join La Liga club Real Betis on a temporary loan until the season’s conclusion, Antony has experienced a revitalization in his career.
He has recaptured the form that initially led to his transfer to United in 2022, netting eight goals in 21 appearances and playing a crucial role in Betis’ pursuit of a Champions League position. Furthermore, he stands on the brink of potentially setting an unparalleled football record. Recently, United secured their place in an all-English Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur after a remarkable 7-1 aggregate victory over Athletic Club in the semi-finals. Concurrently, Betis achieved a hard-fought win against Serie A’s Fiorentina, with a decisive goal in extra time ensuring their place in the Conference League final against Chelsea.
Having contributed to the European campaigns of both United and Betis, Antony is in line to receive a winners’ medal from either or both clubs should they triumph in their respective finals at the end of the month. If both United and Betis emerge victorious, Antony will make history as the first player to become a double European champion in the same season, a remarkable achievement that may never be replicated.
Numerous players have secured two European trophies during their careers; however, none have accomplished this within a single season. Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher exemplify this, having won both the Europa League and the Champions League in 2001 and 2005, respectively.
Manchester United approaches the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur at the San Mames stadium in Bilbao as slight favorites, while Athletic Bilbao aims to upset expectations in their match against Chelsea at Poland’s Stadion Miejski. The Europa League final is scheduled for May 21, followed by the Conference League final on May 28.
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