Britain (AFP) – As long as he assists police investigations into claims of violence against women, winger Antony of Manchester United will resume training and be ready for selection, the team announced on Friday.
On September 10, United granted the Brazilian international, who vehemently refutes the allegations, a leave of absence.
He arrived back in England earlier this week, and on Thursday, he went to a voluntary interview with Greater Manchester Police.
The 23-year-old will resume training with the intention of joining Erik ten Hag’s team, but he won’t play in Saturday’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace, according to United.
A United statement read, “Since allegations were initially brought forward last June, Antony has cooperated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK, and he still does.
While police investigations are ongoing, Manchester United, Antony’s employer, has determined that he will resume training at Carrington and be eligible for selection.
In the event that the matter goes further, we’ll continue to monitor this.
“As a club, we strongly reject acts of abuse and violence. We appreciate the significance of protecting everyone involved in this scenario and the effect that these claims have on abuse survivors.
Gabriela Cavallin, his ex-girlfriend, has been the target of numerous allegations of physical violence, according to Brazilian media interviews earlier this month.
Both of those accusations as well as further assault claims brought by two other women have been refuted by the winger.
He has not been detained or charged in Brazil or Britain, and he was free to leave the voluntary interview once he had offered proof to back up his vehement denials.
Last year, Antony moved from Ajax to United for a starting salary of 95 million euros ($101 million).
He has had trouble maintaining his performance, scoring just eight goals in 48 games.
