Manchester United Player Antony Postpones Return Amid Assault Allegations
Manchester United winger Antony has opted to delay his return to the club in order to address allegations of assault made against him. The 23-year-old Brazilian was initially scheduled to resume training on Monday, following his exclusion from Brazil’s squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru. However, both the player and the club have agreed to postpone his return indefinitely to allow him to address the matter.
Antony vehemently denies all allegations made against him. Manchester United issued a statement acknowledging the allegations and the decision to delay Antony’s return, emphasizing their commitment to condemning acts of violence and abuse. The club also expressed their dedication to safeguarding all parties involved in the situation and recognizing the impact these allegations can have on survivors of abuse.
The allegations against Antony involve domestic abuse claims made by his former girlfriend, along with further assault allegations by another woman in an interview with a Brazilian TV channel. Antony appeared on Brazilian television, asserting, “I never attacked any woman,” and expressing confidence that the truth would emerge.
In a statement released on Sunday, Antony clarified, “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. 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.”
The allegations against Antony include accusations of a headbutt assault on his former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin in a Manchester hotel room on January 15, resulting in a head injury requiring medical treatment. She also alleges that she was punched in the chest, causing damage to a silicone breast implant, necessitating corrective surgery. Antony has publicly refuted these claims, stating that the evidence supports his innocence.
Another woman, Ingrid Lana, aged 33 and a banker, has come forward with allegations of being pushed against a wall by Antony at his Manchester residence in October 2022, causing her to hit her head. Both Greater Manchester Police and Sao Paulo Police are actively investigating these claims.
Despite his absence from international duty, Antony has not been charged or arrested, and Manchester United continues to pay him in full. The club has not classified his absence as a suspension, but rather as a measure taken to allow Antony to defend himself against the allegations. The decision to delay his return was made after consultation with Manchester United’s chief executive, Richard Arnold, and manager, Erik ten Hag. The club intends to closely monitor the situation as it develops.
