Time will tell if this serves as a temporary setback, or the moment where Antony’s loan at Real Betis began to go wrong.

Until now, it had all been ‘too good to be true’ for the Brazilian, who was clearly loving life away from Manchester United, where he is getting the chance to play regularly again.

Antony sent off

Antony was shown a straight red card for a challenge near the touchline that was a needless one to make. He protested the referee’s decision, to no avail.

Getafe had one of their players sent off two minutes later, with Betis able to see out the 2-1 away victory.

Antony had played a key role in the win, providing an assist, with Isco scoring twice.

The United loanee’s form has been excellent. He currently has three goals and two assists in six total appearances for the Spanish side, in La Liga and the Europa Conference League.

This red card is a costly one. It means Antony will be suspended for Real Betis’ upcoming La Liga clash with Real Madrid.

It is bad for Betis, and disappointing for Antony individually, denying him a chance to shine on a big stage, and really underline what he has been doing over the past month.

Speaking post-game following the sending off, Real Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini did not attempt to defend him.

Pellegrini told AS: “It will be unfortunate to lose him for the next game, but it will also serve as a learning experience for him.”

The manager added: “He has enormous talent, we hope he continues like this.”

Antony career red cards

This was the third red card of Antony’s career, and the first time he has been shown a straight red.

Antony was sent off once in for Ajax for two bookings, and once in Brazil when playing for Santos in similar circumstances.

He amassed 14 yellow cards for Manchester United, notably more than the number of goals he scored (12).