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| CREDIT: Alberto Pezzali/AP Image via The Telegraph |
Player and club agree that it is in the best interests of both parties that he takes a period of absence
Antony will leave Manchester United indefinitely to avoid the charges surrounding the Brazilian striker becoming a distraction for his teammates and a unnecessary controversy for the club.
United and Antony have agreed that it is in both parties' best interests for him to take a leave of absence while he tackles the allegations of assault and aggressive behavior leveled against him.
Antony, who vehemently rejects the claims, has not been suspended by United and continues to be paid in full, but he will neither train or be considered for selection for the foreseeable future.
The decision was made so that he could concentrate on defending himself and to keep the matter from becoming a major distraction for the club.
It also demonstrates United's seriousness about the charges, and comes only weeks after the club was chastised for its handling of the Mason Greenwood matter.
Antony was withdrawn from Brazil's World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru last week on Monday.
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 declared that it 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 assault charges against a previous lover, which are being investigated by police in both England and Brazil. Gabriela Cavallin alleges Antony attacked her many times between June of last year and May of this year.
On Friday, Antony appeared on the Brazilian TV show Fofocalizando, where he acknowledged to having a somewhat turbulent relationship with Cavallin, a DJ and influencer, but fiercely denied any physical abuse.
Another woman, Ingrid Lana, a 33-year-old banker, claims in an interview with Brazilian TV show Dominho Espetacular, which will air on Sunday, that Antony sought to have sexual relations with her at his home in England and shoved her against a wall, which resulted to her hitting her head. Antony strenuously denies those claims.
