Brazil drops Antony from its squad over domestic abuse allegations

Another scandal looms as the Brazilian national team removes Manchester United winger Antony Matheus dos Santos from the squad following allegations of physical violence by an ex-partner.

Gabriela Cavallin, Antony’s ex-girlfriend, accused him of physical assault.

Cavallin, the footballer’s ex-girlfriend, made shocking allegations in June 2023 that he assaulted her while she was pregnant.

Anthony, she alleged, also damaged her breast implants and injured her finger with broken glass.

According to ESPN, the 23-year-old Manchester United star refuted the charges and labeled them “false” in a social media post.

According to the Brazilian Football Confederation, the athlete has been dismissed from the Brazilian national squad as he awaits investigations.  

“In light of the facts that came to light on Monday concerning Manchester United player Antony, which must be investigated, and in order to safeguard the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian national team and the CBF,” a statement from Brazil Football Confederation read. 

Brazil is slated to play World Cup qualifying games against Bolivia and Peru. 

“Out of respect for my fans, friends, and family, I feel obligated to speak publicly about the false accusations I have been a victim of,” he wrote.

I have treated this matter carefully and respectfully from the start, offering the necessary clarifications to the police authority. Because the police inquest is under the jurisdiction of the courts, I am unable to make its findings public.

“However, I can say with confidence that the accusations are false, and the evidence that has already been produced and that will be produced show that I am innocent of the accusations made,” Anthony added.