Muheeb Mashood reports
(Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images)
Both Brazilian police and the Greater Manchester police have commenced an investigation against the English club forward, Antony Matheus Dos Santos, following a sexual allegations by the player’s ex-girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin
Recall that the 23-year-old was dropped from the Brazil national team and missed two of the country’s World Cup qualifying matches played against Bolivia and Peru during the international break.
The return of the Brazilian striker to the Red Devil will also be delayed indefinitely, pending the time he will be cleared of his accusations.
“Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony,” the club said in a brief statement on Sunday.
“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.”
“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.”
However, the Carabao Cup medalist has denied the allegations made against him, vowing his cooperation with the police to unravel the true side of the story as he agreed with his club to take a leave to avoid distraction from his teammates and unnecessary controversy. Nevertheless, the forward expressed his wish to return to the club as early as possible.
“I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me,” the player wrote in a post on Instagram.
“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,” he added.
This is another threat faced by Erik Ten Hag side, following the exit of a topnotch striker Mason Greenwood earlier this month, after the termination of a long-term legal process against the young star that commenced on 30 January 2022 and ended on 2 February 2023.
The Allegation
The fresh allegation against the United’s winger was reported by his former girlfriend Cabriela Cavallin to the Greater Manchester police. She claimed to have been raped by the 2001 born forward in 14 January 2023, a day after Premier League match against Manchester City.
The lady alleged that she had suffered a cut to her head and a damaged breast implant.
While another lady, Ingrid Lana has come forward to accuse the Brazilian of attempting to have a relationship illegally without her consent.
While speaking with Record TV, a Brazilian press outlet, she said: “He tried to have a relationship with me and I didn’t want to. He pushed me against the wall, and I hit my head. My purpose was just business. Arriving there at his invitation, I realized that he had ulterior motives. I’ve never been anyone’s lover.”
Rayssa de Freitas was another woman who claimed she required hospital treatment after being assaulted by Antony and a woman in May 2022, and reported the matter to Sao Paulo Civil Police.