Antony’s Betis reinvention continues with Iluminado fashion line

 

Footballers and clubs will just about flog anything these days as demonstrated by La Liga’s Real Betis who are set to launch a clothing line inspired by star winger Antony’s neck tattoo.

Antony has quickly the Brazilian has rebranded himself in Spain after a unfulfilling spell at Manchester United. He joined Betis permanently for €22 million on transfer deadline day, has the word Iluminado (enlightened) inked across his neck.

“This is one of my favorites,” Antony said. “Because of where I come from and what I’ve been through, I feel enlightened, which is why I have this tattoo, which has a lot of meaning for me.”

Enlightened is not a word that came close to justifying his £85 million price tag at Old Trafford. Across his time at Man Utd, Antony managed just five goals in 62 appearances, and was often criticised for inconsistency, poor decision-making, and a tendency to flatter only in flashes.

Once hailed as former manager Erik ten Hag’s marquee signing, he quickly became a symbol of wasted potential and money.

Betis, though, sees an opportunity with the Brazilian after a successful loan last season, where United simply saw disappointment. The club confirmed the clothing line was born out of negotiations in August, with Antony set to receive royalties alongside his reduced wage.

“We’ve launched a clothing line with Antony,” said CEO Ramon Alarcón. “We’re participating with him through royalties, and he’ll also have some income outside of sports with that merchandising.”

Fans can already pre-order Iluminado T-shirts for €24.95 ($29.28), with hoodies and other garments due by Christmas. The response so far has been nothing but positive, with Betis gaining over 205,000 new followers since his signing, while shirt sales and engagement rates have surged.

Antony insists he even turned down Bayern Munich to return to Betis. For a player written off in England, the city of Seville has become both refuge and relaunch. Enlightened, perhaps, but more importantly for his once-stalled career, finally productive.