The Brazilian national football team has removed 23-year-old Manchester United winger Antony from their squad in response to allegations of abuse made by his former girlfriend. The Brazilian Football Federation cited the need for an investigation into the “publicly disclosed facts” as the reason for his withdrawal.
The accusations came to light through a report by Brazilian news outlet UOL, featuring claims made by Antony’s ex-partner. The player, however, has firmly denied the allegations and declared his innocence on social media, expressing confidence that ongoing police investigations will prove his innocence.
According to the allegations, Antony is accused of assaulting Gabriela Cavallin with a headbutt in a Manchester hotel room on January 15, resulting in a head injury that required medical attention. The accuser also claims she was punched in the chest, causing damage to a silicone breast implant that needed corrective surgery.
In Antony’s statement, he acknowledged that his relationship with his former partner was tumultuous but vehemently denied any physical aggression, emphasizing that he had been falsely accused of domestic violence in June.
Both Sao Paulo and Greater Manchester police are actively investigating the allegations, with Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirming their awareness of the situation and ongoing inquiries. However, GMP declined to provide further comments at this time.
Manchester United has refrained from making any statements regarding the matter. These allegations follow the club’s recent announcement that forward Mason Greenwood would be departing by mutual agreement after a six-month internal investigation. Charges, including rape and assault, against Greenwood were dropped in February, and he has since joined Spanish side Getafe on loan.
In response to Antony’s absence, Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus has been called up to replace him in the Brazil squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru.
