Premier League club Manchester United have removed their winger Antony from the squad amidst allegations of assault. United in a public statement confirmed their decision stating that they take the allegations seriously and will wait for the proceedings to clear up the matter.
Antony is currently facing serious allegations of assault. The accusations were made by his former girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin, who alleges that the winger threatened to throw her from a moving car. She has also claimed that she was head-butted and punched by Antony in a Manchester hotel room on January 15, 2023. Another incident allegedly occurred on May 8, 2023, where she sustained a finger injury.
Another woman, Rayssa de Freitas, has also come forward with claims that she required hospital treatment after being assaulted by Antony and another woman in May 2022. In response to these allegations, Antony has not been arrested or charged but has stated his intention to cooperate fully with the police to prove his innocence.
“Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony,” United said in a statement on Sunday, 10 September.
“Players who have not participated in international matches are due back in training on Monday. However, it has been agreed with Antony that he will delay his return until further notice in order to address the allegations,” the club further added.
“As a club we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse,” the statement concluded.
Antony, who has agreed for the law to take its course from the start gave out a personal statement as well and said that it was mutual decision made by him and the club.
“I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me. This was a mutual decision to avoid distraction to my teammates and unnecessary controversy for the club,” Antony said in his statement.
“I want to reiterate my innocence of the things I have been accused of, and I will fully cooperate with the police to help them reach the truth. I look forward to returning to play as soon as possible,” he further added.
Antony was also dropped from Brazil’s squad that played against Bolivia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
