Manchester United winger Antony has announced that he will not be returning to England “until further notice” as he faces allegations of assault. The Brazilian player, who denies the allegations, is currently under investigation by both Brazilian authorities and Greater Manchester Police. The allegations were made by his former partner Gabriela Cavallin, who claimed to have been assaulted on multiple occasions between June 2022 and May 2023. Two additional women also made accusations against Antony in the Brazilian media on Thursday.
In a statement on social media, the 23-year-old called Cavallin’s allegations “false.” However, he gave an extended interview to Brazilian TV channel SBT on Friday, where he strongly denied assaulting any woman and stated, “I never have and I never will.” As a result of the investigation and allegations, Antony was dropped from the Brazil squad for this month’s internationals.
While Manchester United players not on international duty are expected to return to training on Monday, Antony and the club have mutually agreed that he will take a “period of absence” to address the allegations. In a statement, the club condemned acts of violence and abuse and acknowledged the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.
Antony himself stated, “I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me… I want to reiterate my innocence 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.”
Manchester United CEO Richard Arnold and manager Erik ten Hag were involved in signing off on the club’s statement, which confirmed that Antony has not been suspended and will continue to receive full pay during his leave of absence. The club will review the situation as it develops.
Women’s Aid, a domestic abuse charity, welcomed the decision for Antony to take a period of absence, stating on social media that safeguarding must always be the priority.
The investigation into the allegations against Antony is ongoing, with police in Sao Paulo and Greater Manchester involved. It is currently unclear when Antony’s leave of absence will end and when he will be available for selection again. Under the terms of the Premier League contract, clubs can only suspend players for a maximum of 14 days, but United may choose not to consider Antony eligible for selection while continuing to pay his wages. The club maintains that Antony is innocent until proven guilty in their eyes.