Manchester United spoke about the allegations of domestic abuse made against Brazil international Antony for the first time on Wednesday, saying it was taking the matter seriously.
A club statement published on Wednesday said: “Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony and notes that the police are conducting inquiries.
“Pending further information, the club will be making no further comments.
“As a club, we are taking this matter seriously, with consideration of the impact these allegations and subsequent reporting will have on survivors of abuse.”
It comes after Brazilian media outlet UOL published fresh allegations from Antony’s ex-partner Gabriela Cavallin on Monday, which he has denied.
Cavallin claims she suffered a cut to the head that needed treatment from a doctor after Antony attacked her “with a headbutt” in a Manchester hotel room on 15 January.
She also alleges he punched her in the chest, causing damage to a silicone breast implant that required corrective surgery back in Brazil.
Another alleged incident took place at a house on 8 May – during which she claims she suffered a cut finger while trying to protect herself, accusing Antony of throwing a glass cup towards her and taking her passport.
Cavallin is said to have filed a report to the Sao Paulo Civil Police concerning allegations of physical and verbal abuse by Antony while on holiday in Brazil during June 2022, when she was pregnant, as well as making a separate complaint to Greater Manchester Police.
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“I can say with confidence that the accusations are false and that the evidence already produced shows that I am innocent of the accusations made,” Antony said on social media.
“My relationship with Ms Gabriela was tumultuous, with verbal offences from both sides, but I never practised any physical aggression.
“I trust that the ongoing police investigations will demonstrate the truth about my innocence.”
A statement from the Brazilian Football Confederation read: “As a result of the facts that have come to light, and which need to be investigated, and to safeguard the supposed victim, the player, and the Brazilian national team the CBF have withdrawn [him] from the squad.”
Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus has replaced Antony in the Brazil squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru.
A statement from Greater Manchester Police said it is “aware of the allegations made and inquiries remain ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding this report”.
