Premier League giant Manchester United’s winger Antony has been removed from the Brazil national team squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. All this has come amid the domestic abuse controversy surrounding the young Brazilian.
As things stand, the player does not find himself being called up for the national team. This pertains to the precautionary and protective measures taken by the management. The Manchester United player is being accused of domestic violence by his ex-girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin.
The CBF said, “In light of the facts concerning Manchester United player Antony, that must be investigated, and in order to safeguard the victim, the Brazilian National team, the player, and the CBF, the organization announces that the athlete has been removed from the Brazil national team”.
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Brazil have removed Antony from the national squad:
✍️ “In light of the facts which came to light on Monday (04/09) concerning Manchester United player Antony, which must be investigated, and in order to safeguard the alleged victim, the player, the… pic.twitter.com/JchsqsmDLR
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) September 4, 2023
The Brazilian authorities opened up the investigations after Gabriela and her legal representatives filed the complaint against Antony. Sao Paulo Court in Brazil has been in charge of the matter and evidence.
Now that the investigations are going on, the Brazil national team and their organization have decided to support the investigations. Brazil will be taking on Bolivia and Peru this month. Antony has so far represented his national team fifteen times, with two goals to his name. During the FIFA World Cup 2022, the player had four outings for the team.
What are the allegations made by Gabriela Cavallin against Antony?
The major accusations are of domestic abuse. The model and DJ, in an interview with the Brazilian outlet, said that there have been several instances of her being affected by Antony’s abusive behavior since last year. The physical abuse of her by the player was accompanied by other unacceptable activities. These were taking off her passport, breaking off her important personal things, punching and hitting her, and throwing the mobile phone at her.
Gabriela also stated that the winger cut her finger bone and was extremely aggressive toward her. During their stay at a hotel in Greater Manchester, her boyfriend pushed her and got over her while she was pregnant. However, Antony has denied these accusations and termed them false.
Until further investigations take place, it might be tough for Antony to play for his national side. The Brazilian team management will not take any chances in regard to this matter. As of now, the winger won’t be taking any part in the World Cup qualifiers for Brazil in September 2023. It remains to be seen, whether the Red Devils player returns to his national team if the investigation concludes.