Man United’s Antony dropped by Brazil amid assault allegations as Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus called up
Former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin made fresh claims against Antony on Monday in an interview with Brazilian publication UOL, alleging that she was attacked while pregnant and suffered injuries to her head and fingers.
She claims she was punched and headbutted by Antony in a hotel the day after United’s win over Manchester City on January 14.
Antony, who in June denied the original allegations of assault made by Cavallin, took to social media to release another statement in response to the the accuastions.
He wrote: “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 cover of justice, and therefore I cannot make its contents public. However, I can say with confidence that the accusations are false and that the evidence already produced and more to be produced show that I am innocent of the accusations made.
“My relationship with Ms, Gabriela was tumultuous, with verbal offences from both sides, but I never practiced any physical aggression. Every time, whether in testimony or in interview, she presents a different version of the accusations.
“Thus, I come to deny the accusations made and inform that I remain at the full disposal of the Brazilian authorities to clarify what is needed. I trust the ongoing police investigations will reveal the truth about my innocence.”
Antony has been removed from the Brazil squad for upcoming qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru, with Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus called up in his place.
A statement from the Brazil federation said: “In light of the facts which came to light on Monday (04/09) concerning Manchester United player Antony, which must be investigated, and in order to safeguard the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian national team and the CBF, the organization informs that the athlete has been removed from the Brazilian national team.”
The allegations made against Antony have been reported to police in Sao Paulo and Manchester. Greater Manchester Police said: “Greater Manchester Police is aware of the allegations made and enquiries remain ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding this report. We will not be commenting any further at this time.”
