Manchester United winger removed from Brazil team as police investigate fresh claims of assault.

Manchester United winger Antony has been dropped from the Brazil national squad following fresh assault allegations made by his former girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin.

Cavallin, in an interview with Brazilian publication UOL, claims that Antony assaulted her while she was pregnant, alleging that he punched and headbutted her in a hotel following Manchester United’s victory over Manchester City on January 14. Antony, who previously denied earlier assault allegations made by Cavallin in June, responded to the latest claims with a statement, insisting he is innocent. He stated that he has cooperated with authorities from the start and maintains that the accusations are false, adding that the evidence would prove his innocence.

“I trust the ongoing police investigations will reveal the truth about my innocence,” he said in his statement. Antony also acknowledged that their relationship had been tumultuous, involving verbal altercations, but he denied any physical aggression.

In light of the accusations, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that Antony would be removed from the squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru. Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has been called up as his replacement.

The allegations have been reported to police in both Sao Paulo and Manchester, and investigations are ongoing, with Greater Manchester Police confirming that they are looking into the matter.