Man Utd star Antony issues statement after being dropped by Brazil amid domestic abuse allegations

Manchester United star Antony has denied abuse allegations levelled against him by his former girlfriend. 

The £85million winger has been dropped from the Brazil squad after an interview, including pictures and screenshots of messages, where Gabriela Cavallin says she was the victim of several attacks by the 23-year-old over a period of several months. 

The claims on Brazilian website UOL include the social media influencer being headbutted in a Manchester hotel room, being punched in the chest damaging a breast implant and Antony throwing a glass causing a cut finger. 

Greater Manchester Police and the  Sao Paulo Civil Police are said to be investigating. 

In a statement, GMP said: “Greater Manchester Police is aware of the allegations made and enquiries remain ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding this report. We will not be commenting any further at this time.”

Manchester United have declined to comment on the matter when approached by several publications.

In an Instagram post, Antony said: “Out of respect for my fans, friends and family, I feel obliged to speak out publicly about the false accusations I have been the victim of.

“From the beginning I have treated this matter with seriousness and respect, providing the necessary clarifications before the police authority. The police investigation is under judicial secrecy, and therefore I cannot make its contents public.

“However, I can calmly state that the accusations are false and that the evidence already produced and the other evidence that will be produced demonstrate that I am innocent of the accusations made. My relationship with Gabriela was tumultuous, with verbal insults from both sides, but I never committed any physical aggression.

“At each moment, whether in testimony or in an interview, she presents a different version of the accusations. Therefore, I come to vehemently deny the accusations made and inform you that I remain at the entire disposal of the Brazilian authorities to clarify whatever is necessary.

“I trust that the ongoing police investigations will demonstrate the truth about my innocence.”

In dropping the forward for their squad for World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru, Brazil said: “Due to the facts that became public this Monday, involving striker Antony, from Manchester United, and which need to be investigated, and in order to preserve the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian team and the CBF, the entity informs that the athlete has been withdrawn from the Brazilian team."

Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus has been called up as a replacement.