Manchester united's Antony placed on leave of absence amidst Investigations into assault

Manchester 

Sunday, 10 September, 2023 

McCreadie Andias 

Manchester united's winged Antony will delay resuming to the club duties after the club placed him under a leave of absence to pave way for the ongoing Investigations surrounding him amidst allegations on assault. 

In a statement, The club confirmed that Antony will not rejoin the team shortly after the International break "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."

Earlier this week, the winger was dropped by the Brazilian squad following allegations made by his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavalin who accused him of assaulting her in May 22.

In an interview, Gabriela exposed watsapp conversation with the player showing threatening messages fueled by Antony against her, The Tv further went to expose some pictures of Gabriela with sustained head injuries which she claims were inflicted on her by Antony. 

Antony however appeared in a Brazilian Television SBT interview and dismissed the allegations. 

When asked if he had assaulted any woman, Antony said: "Never. I never have and I never will."

He added: "[Violence towards women] is totally wrong, 100 per cent wrong.

"I have a mother, a sister. I would never want this to happen to them."

Antony is yet again accused by another woman of sexual violence and assault. 

Ingrid Lana in a interview Brazilian reports that Antony forced her to have sex with him while on a business trip to England. 

Lana claims Antony invited her to his house for business talks but upon arrival the player pushed her on the wall and forced her to sleep with him. 

"He pushed me against the wall and I hit my head. My purpose was just business. Arriving there at his invitation, I realised he had ulterior motives."said Lana. 

Antony took to his social media accounts to agree to the leave insisting on his innocence.

" 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 team-mates 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 are under pressure to act as the case comes hot on the heels of the club's decision to part ways with 21 year old teenager Mason Greenwood who had faced charges including attempted rape and assault. 

Greenwood was however acquitted of the charges in February after key witnesses withdrew. 

This however did not secure back his reinstatement into the club as the Manchester united women's side threatened to strike if the players would rejoin. 

Greenwood has subsequently joined Spanish side Getafe on loan

Antony has however been placed on a leave of absence on full pay, not suspended as the club continues to review the situation.