Breaking: Man Utd’s Antony on ‘Leave of Absense’ following Abuse allegations

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Manchester United has given Antony Matheus dos Santos  a Leave of Absence following the serious charges his former girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin leveled against him. Both he and the club have given statements about the development.

The player was reported to the Brazilian police by the former girlfriend, but has also been reported to the Greater Manchester Police; and both bodies have been investigating the accusations.

Though Antony has not been arrested, and there is no case filed against him at a court yet, the Premier League club made the decision to ensure the stoppage of any backlash that would develop against the team from the incident.

Reports say that the Brazilian national team has since removed the player from their team while the episodes between him and former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin kept unfolding, intending to keep the team from the smear that followed the inclusion of players with such profiles in their team.

Recall that La Roja sacked their women’s senior team coach, Jorge Vilda, over his stance on the sack of their FA president. The explanation given by Manchester United on their decision to keep this player away from the club, though, was that it could also give him time to defend himself concerning the severe accusations brought against him by Cavallin.

Antony would have to provide evidences and answer questions about the WhatsApp correspondence and audios Cavallin has provided to support her claims.

Antony is presently the number two player accused of domestic abuse by a woman whose case got talked about this year. The club has agreed to treat him as the treated the first one, Mason Greenwood, who continued to receive his salary while not being allowed to represent the club in any game. It could also happen to him as he happened to Greenwood, who at his being proved not-guilty at court, was not allowed to play for the team anymore, in fear of the backlash that would follow.

Antony will be paid in full as usual

Antony’s weekly pay is £200,000, and the club has decided to pay him the full amount as usual, following  meeting with Antony’s representatives and others.

In the statement Manchester United released after the decision, they said, ‘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. 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.’

Antony has denied the allegations. Here is the statement he dropped following the latest development: ‘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. 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.’