Manchester United winger Antony will not return to England and club duty “until further notice” following allegations of assault against the player which led to investigations by Brazillian authorities and Greater Manchester Police, according to the Athletic.
Antony Set for Extended Period Away From England
Man Utd Release Club Statement Announcing Star’s Delayed Return
The Premier League side has released a statement on their website to acknowledge the allegations made against the Brazillian winger, who was dropped by his international side following reports of abuse and assault against multiple women. Antony has denied all allegations.
The club has 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: Period of Absence a ‘Mutual Decision’
“I have agreed with United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me”. “This was (a) mutual decision”. “I want to reiterate my innocence of the things I have been accused of, I will fully cooperate with the police”.
The player faces accusations by three women, including his former partner who alleged that he assaulted her on multiple occasions between June 2022 and May 2023, which included a period in which she was pregnant.
Another woman has claimed that she required hospital treatment after being assaulted by the Brazillian and another woman in his car in May 2022.
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A third person has claimed in a television interview that Antony invited her into his house and attempted to pressure her into having sex, resulting in the 23-year-old pushing her against a wall, which impacted her head.
Antony has denied all allegations to Brazillian TV channel SBT and when asked if he had ever assaulted any woman he said: “Never. I never have and I never will.” He went further to claim that he would prove his innocence.
Antony’s Return Date is Unclear
Manchester United return to Old Trafford on September 16th to face Brighton and Hove Albion. It appears unlikely that the former Ajax player will be available for the fixture, or when he will return to the squad.
Read More: Manchester United’s Antony Response Is Not Good Enough – Opinion
Antony is understood to be awaiting the results of investigations by both Greater Manchester Police and Sao Paulo authorities, who have both received reports of assault from Antony’s ex-partner. While it is too early to be sure, it appears that the player could be absent until investigations are concluded.
Main Image Credit: Brent Flanders, CC BY-NC-ND-2.0
