Antony will stay away from Manchester United for an indefinite period to avoid the allegations surrounding the Brazil striker from becoming a “distraction” for his team-mates and an “unnecessary controversy” for the club.
United and Antony have agreed that it is in the best interests of both parties that he takes a period of absence while he addresses the accusations of assault and violent behaviour being levelled against him.
Antony, 23, who strenuously denies the allegations against him, has not been suspended by United and remains on full pay but he will not train or be considered for selection for the foreseeable future.
The decision was taken to allow him to focus on defending himself and to prevent the situation from becoming a huge distraction for the club.
It also reflects the seriousness with which United are taking the allegations and comes just weeks after the club were criticised for their handling of the Mason Greenwood case.
Antony was dropped on Monday from the Brazil squad last week for their World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru.
In a statement, Antony said: “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.”
United condemned “acts of violence and abuse” in a statement and said Antony would not be returning to the club on Monday and that they would continue to review the situation as it develops.
In a statement, the club said: “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 recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”
Antony is facing accusations of assault against a former girlfriend that are currently the subject of police investigations in England and Brazil. Gabriela Cavallin claims she was the victim of a series of attacks by Antony between June last year and May this year.
Antony gave an interview to Brazilian TV show Fofocalizando on Friday in which he admitted he had endured a “somewhat turbulent” relationship with Cavallin, a DJ and influencer, but vehemently denied any physical violence.
Another woman, Ingrid Lana, a 33-year-old banker, has claimed in an interview with Brazilian TV show Dominho Espetacular, which is due to air on Sunday, that Antony tried to have sexual intercourse with her at his home in England and pushed her against a wall that led to her hitting her head. Antony strenuously denies those claims.
