Antony To Delay Return To Manchester United Amid Allegations

Antony will not be returning to Manchester United training immediately after the international break amid allegations of assault.

Futballnews understands that Antony has been placed on leave of absence on full pay, he is not suspended at the moment.

Manchester United at the moment are currently monitoring the situation as it has been developing for weeks now.

Recall we reported that the United Ace was axed from the Brazil squad earlier this week after allegations were made by his ex-girlfriend.

His ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavalin claimed that he assaulted her when they were still together and it brought her so much pain.

Antony on the other hand later appeared on Brazilian TV to vehemently deny all the allegations that were leveled against him by Gabriela.

Antony also saw two other allegations against him by two other ladies, a law student Rayssa de Freitas and banker Ingrid Lana.

While Ingrid Lana’s story is yet to be revealed, Rayssa de Freitas claims she required hospital treatment after being assaulted by the United ace in May 2022.

However, due to the development, United released a statement saying: “Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony.”

“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.”

“As a club we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognize the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”

Antony also backed the United statement saying: “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 team-mates 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 United player, just like we reported, spoke to Brazilian network SBT this week and denied the allegations and said the truth will come out.

Antony was asked if he had ever assaulted any woman before, he replied saying: “Never. I never have and I never will.”

Antony also added that: “[Violence towards women] is totally wrong, 100 per cent wrong.”

“I have a mother, a sister. I would never want this to happen to them.”

Recent reports have it that De Freitas reported the alleged incident to the Sao Paulo Civil Police.

Ingrid Lana, who is a banker, also claimed in a television interview that she was forced by the United player to have sex with him during one of her business trip to England last year.

Lana also alleged Antony invited her to his house and pushed her against a wall which led to her banging her head.

While speaking in the interview, Lana said: “He [Antony] tried to have a relationship with me and I didn’t want to.”

“He pushed me against the wall and I hit my head. My purpose was just business. Arriving there at his invitation, I realised he had ulterior motives.”

The former Ajax winger was asked about Lana’s accusation in an interview on Friday, he said: “Negative. I’m 100 per cent certain that I never touched any woman. 100 per cent. I am certain.”

“I will produce the proof and people will understand. They will see the truth.”