Antony was left out of the Brazil squad on Monday following allegations of domestic violence made against the Manchester United footballer.
The 23-year-old was in the squad for CONMEBOL’s World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru, but was excused from international duty after the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) cited allegations “that require investigation.”
Domestic violence allegations were first made against Antony in June by his ex-girlfriend and further allegations against him were made public on Monday.
Manchester United said they were aware of the decision taken by the CBF but declined to comment, while Antony denied any wrongdoing.
A statement issued by the CBF read: “Due to the facts that came to light this Monday involving Manchester United player Antony, and need to be investigated, and to protect the alleged victim, the player, the Brazilian team and the CBF, the organization informs that the athlete has been withdrawn from the team Brazil.”
The allegations are being investigated in Brazil and a complaint has also been made to police in Manchester.
Greater Manchester Police issued a statement on Monday saying: “Greater Manchester Police is aware of the allegations made and inquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding this report.”
Responding to the allegations, Antony posted a statement on social media confirming that “these allegations are not true”.
It read: “Out of respect for my fans, friends and family, I feel obliged to speak openly about the false allegations of which I have been victimized. From the start I have treated this matter seriously and respectfully, providing appropriate clarifications to police authorities.”
“The police inquiry is under the guise of justice and therefore I cannot publish its contents. However, I can say with confidence that the allegations are false and the evidence that has been produced and more that will be produced shows that I am innocent of the allegations made.”
Daniel Bialski, the lawyer for Antony’s ex-girlfriend, said via Brazilian outlet Globo Monday: “The only thing he wants is that, for everything he went through, he [Antony] is punished. I have great confidence in the Civil Police investigation and I wait for him to be tried for the crime he committed.”
Antony played for Brazil at the World Cup in Qatar and has scored two goals in 16 matches for the national team.
He played 84 minutes in the Red Devils’ 3-1 loss to Arsenal on Sunday.
Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus was called up to the national team for two scheduled games as a substitute.
