Following assault charges, Manchester United forward Antony has been left from B the Brazil squad for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers matches against Bolivia and Peru, the nation’s football organization (CBF) announced on Monday.
The decision to do so was made following the revelation of charges of physical assault by Antony’s ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin in the Brazilian media source UOL.
Any wrongdoing has been refuted by Antony.
“Due to the facts that became public on Monday involving Manchester United striker Antony that need to be investigated, and in order to protect the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian national team and the CBF … (Antony) is withdrawn from the (squad),” the CBF said.
Antony denied the allegations on social media, adding that he could not give more details due to the police investigation.
“Since the beginning I have treated this matter with seriousness and respect, providing the necessary clarifications before the police authority,” Antony said on Instagram.
“I can confidently state that the accusations are false and that the evidence already produced and the others that will be produced demonstrate that I am innocent of the accusations made.
“I trust that the ongoing police investigations will demonstrate the truth about my innocence.”
Brazilian federation official statement on Antony dropped after investigation 🇧🇷
“In order to safeguard the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian national team and the CBF, the organization informs that Antony has been removed from the Brazilian national team”. pic.twitter.com/5SYBSgGGDq
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 4, 2023
Trending Stories: FPL Gameweek 4 Recap: Another Big Haaland Haul, iSoccer Winners
A spokesperson for Brazil’s Public Security Secretariat confirmed that a police investigation was under way.
Manchester United were not immediately available to comment.
Brazil coach Fernando Diniz has called up Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus to replace Antony, who has made 16 appearances for the national team and was part of the 2022 World Cup squad that reached the quarter-finals.
Brazil host Bolivia on Friday and visit Peru four days later as they get their World Cup qualifying campaign under way.
COMMENTS