10 September 2023 , 12:43
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Manchester United forward Antony has issued a statement after the club gave him a leave of absence in the light of allegations against him.
Allegations of assault were brought against the player by his former girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin, and further claims have since been brought against the 23-year-old by different women. The Brazil international denies all allegations against him.
Antony, who joined United from Ajax in 2022, had been part of the first-team squad in the early part of the season. He most recently featured in the defeat at Arsenal in United's last Premier League outing, but was withdrawn from Brazil's international squad before his club's decision to grant him a leave of absence.
“I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me," he said. “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.”
Antony had been due to return to United training on Monday. However, Mirror Football understands the decision to give him a leave of absence was reached after conversations between club higher-ups and manager Erik ten Hag, as well as Antony and his representatives.
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Antony last played for Man United in their 3-1 defeat at Arsenal (Ashley Western/Colorsport/REX/Shutterstock)United have issued a statement of their own in relation to the latest developments. "Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony," it begins.
"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, who played under Ten Hag at Ajax, followed the manager to Old Trafford at the start of the 2022-23 season. He played 25 league games for United last season, scoring four goals, and has featured in all four of his club's Premier League matches this term.
The former Sao Paulo youngster also has two goals from 16 senior appearances for Brazil. He was part of his country's squad for the 2022 World Cup, playing in four of the Selecao's five matches as they fell at the quarter-final stage.
United's season will resume on September 16, with Ten Hag's team welcoming Brighton to Old Trafford. Four days later, the club will get their Champions League group stage campaign underway with a trip to Bayern Munich.