In a statement, Manchester United acknowledged the accusations of domestic violence against winger Antony.
Gabriela Cavallin, Antony’s ex-girlfriend, accused him of domestic violence in June. After she provided additional information about the player’s alleged behaviour, including claims that he threatened toss her out of a moving car, cut her finger, and punched her breast implant, United remained silent. In two different declarations, Antony has refuted the charges of assault.
Antony had been called up by Brazil for their upcoming internationals but after Brazilian website UOL published Cavallin’s account, the winger was dropped from the squad.
The club finally released a statement on their official website on Wednesday, which read: “Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony and notes that the Police are conducting enquiries. Pending further information, the club will be making no further comments. As a club, we are taking this matter seriously, with consideration of the impact of these allegations and subsequent reporting will have on survivors of abuse.”
United’s statement came a day after several domestic abuse charities criticised the club for allowing Antony to continue to play and train following the accusations in June and then this week, when Greater Manchester Police confirmed it was making enquiries into the allegations.
The club faced huge criticism last month after it was reported that they were preparing to reintegrate Mason Greenwood into the squad six months after charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive and controlling behaviour against the striker were dropped. United eventually decided that Greenwood could not continue his career at the club and he has joined Getafe on loan.
Andrea Simon, director of End Violence Against Women Coalition, said: “The world is watching Manchester United to see how one of the biggest clubs responds to these latest reports of domestic abuse. We once again call on the Premier League and FA to take meaningful action as it is clear that these are not incidents they can take in isolation, but part of a pattern of behaviour within a culture that enables footballers to perpetrate violence against women with impunity.”
Tracy Blackwell, director of strategic insights and partnerships at Refuge, stated: “Refuge is deeply concerned by the number of domestic abuse allegations involving high profile sports figures, such as footballers, that have been emerging in the media over the last few months, and the responses that clubs have had to these.
“Powerful men so often use their status and their wealth to silence women. It is important that the FA, Premier League, and clubs make it clear to their fans, that they do not condone any forms of violence against women and girls. Domestic abuse is a crime and should be treated as such. Swift action needs to be taken to adopt a zero-tolerance policy to abuse and address this culture of violence against women and girls within football.”
Women’s Aid also issued United with a warning over the potential consequences of continuing to play Antony, who is under contract at Old Trafford until 2027.
