Manchester United player Antony is facing accusations of domestic abuse, threats, and bodily harm by his ex-partner, Gabriella Cavallin. The Brazilian footballer was recently dropped from the Selecao squad following these allegations. Cavallin has expressed her concern over Manchester United allowing Antony to continue playing despite the accusations, calling for him to receive a suspension similar to the treatment given to Mason Greenwood.
Cavallin questioned the timing of Manchester United’s response, stating, “Why did it take United three months? It’s just not OK. I prefer not to believe such a huge club, with such serious and professional people, would cover up a situation like this. Antony must be taken off the pitch. It’s disappointing that he’s still allowed to play while an investigation is underway. I’m absolutely devastated by this whole process. How can life go on as normal for him? They can’t know what they know now and do nothing. He has to be suspended. I will not give up. People need to be held accountable. It doesn’t matter what profession or how famous someone might be. If they took action against his teammate, I don’t see why Antony should be treated differently.”
Additionally, two other women have accused Antony of violent behavior. Ingrid Lana, a 33-year-old banker, claimed Antony behaved aggressively towards her in October 2022. She stated, “He tried to have sex with me and I didn’t want to. He pushed me against the wall, and I hit my head.” Another woman, law student Rayssa de Freitas, reported requiring hospital treatment after an incident in May 2022 in which she was allegedly attacked by Antony and Mallu Ohana, the ex-wife of Brazilian player Dudu, following their visit to a nightclub in Sao Paulo.
Manchester United has responded to the allegations by acknowledging them and deciding to delay Antony’s return to training until further notice. The club condemned acts of violence and abuse, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding everyone involved in the situation and recognizing the impact of such allegations on survivors of abuse.
Antony himself confirmed that he would remain in Brazil to cooperate with the police in addressing the accusations. In an interview in his native Brazil, the visibly shaken and tearful footballer denied all allegations and expressed his eagerness to return to playing as soon as possible.
