Manchester United’s Antony has been dropped from the Brazil national squad as authorities launch an investigation into allegations of domestic violence against the 23-year-old footballer.
On Monday, Antony, the 23-year-old Manchester United footballer, was removed from the Brazil squad amid fresh allegations of domestic violence. He had originally been selected for the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying matches against Bolivia and Peru.
However, the Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) decided to release him from international duty due to these new allegations that require investigation.
These accusations of domestic violence were initially raised by his ex-girlfriend back in June, and additional claims from her became public on Monday.
Manchester United acknowledged the CBF’s decision but chose not to comment on the matter. Antony, on the other hand, maintains his innocence.
The statement issued by the CBF read: “Due to the facts that became public this Monday involving Manchester United player Antony, and which need to be investigated, and in order to safeguard the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian team and the CBF, the organisation informs that the athlete has been withdrawn from the Brazilian team.”
The allegations are under investigation in Brazil and a complaint has also been made to police in Manchester.
Greater Manchester Police issued a statement Monday that read: “Greater Manchester Police is aware of the allegations made and enquiries remain ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding this report.”
In response to the allegations, Antony posted a statement on social media in which he insisted the “accusations are false.”
It read: “Out of respect for my fans, friends and family, I feel obligated to speak publicly about the false accusations I have been a victim of. From the beginning I have handled this issue seriously and with respect, providing the due clarifications to the police authority.
“The police inquest is under the cover of justice and therefore I cannot make its content public. However, I can say with confidence that the accusations are false and the evidence already produced and more to be produced show that I am innocent of the accusations made.”
Daniel Bialski, the lawyer for Antony’s ex-girlfriend, said via Brazil outlet Globo Monday: “The only thing she wants is that, for everything she went through, he [Antony] be punished. I trust a lot in the investigation of the Civil Police and I wait for him to be prosecuted for the crimes he committed.”
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