Antony's girlfriend wins first battle as Manchester United tell winger to stay back in Brazil

Brazilian winger Antony has been granted permission to delay his return to Manchester United following allegations of assault. 

This much Pulse Sports can report after the Red Devils released a statement to that effect on Sunday. 

According to the club, United and Antony have agreed for the former Ajax man to stay back in Brazil until further notice. 

“Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony,” United said in the statement on their website. 

“Players who have not participated in international matches are due back in training on Monday.”

“However, it has been agreed with Antony that he will delay his return until further notice in order to address the allegations,” the club added. 

As per Pulse Sports, the partner of United’s forward, Gabriella Cavallin made a passionate call for the Red Devils to suspend the Brazilian.

Cavallin had accused Antony of physical assault and also claimed that the Red Devils were aware of the incident. 

With investigations opened in Manchester and Brazil for the case, the girlfriend asked the English club to suspend the 23-year-old pending the outcome of the investigation of the allegations against him. 

Cavallin has expressed disappointment in Manchester United’s approach to the situation, asking why it took the Premier League club so long to issue a statement, however empty, and pleading with them to suspend her ex-boyfriend.

The celebrity DJ, model, and influencer has published evidence of the alleged abuse and in an interview with The Sun asked Manchester United to stop playing Antony immediately.

“I prefer not to believe such a huge club, with such serious and professional people, would cover up a situation like this,” she stated.

“Antony must be taken off the pitch. It's disappointing that he's still allowed to play while an investigation is underway.”

Following her plea, it seems United have now reacted with a statement that Antony will now delay his return till further notice.

“As a club, we condemn acts of violence and abuse,” United added. “We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”