On September 10, Sunday, Manchester United released a statement to acknowledge the assault allegations made against Antony, the Brazilian forward. The club revealed that the 23-year-old had agreed to delay his return to the Red Devils until further notice, “to address the allegations” levelled at him by his former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin.

Antony was dropped from the Brazilian squad for the FIFA World Cup qualifying matches after the assault allegations against him came to light from Gabriela Cavallin, who claimed that she was attacked four times by him. Since then, two more women, including Ingrid Lana, a 33-year-old banker, claimed that they were attacked by the Premier League footballer too.

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The statement by the Communications Department of Manchester United read, “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,” it added.

“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,” the statement from Manchester United concluded.

Shortly afterwards, Antony issued a statement about the assault allegations against him, while detailing his future course of action as a player for the Red Devils. The 23-year-old said, “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 teammates and unnecessary controversy for the club,” he added.

“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, ”  Antony concluded.