Brazilian Police Conclude Investigation into Manchester United Star Antony Without Charges; Case Remains Under Review

A Brazilian police investigation into domestic abuse allegations against Manchester United winger Antony has concluded without charges being brought against the player. However, the case is still under review by prosecutors, leaving the possibility of further action open.

The 24-year-old footballer, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing, is also under investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) in the UK. The allegations, made by three women in September last year, have not led to Antony’s arrest or charges in either Brazil or the UK.

Antony’s legal team responded to the closure of the Brazilian investigation with a statement affirming the player’s innocence. “The defense of Antony Matheus dos Santos confirms that the police investigation opened at the fifth Women’s Defense Precinct of Sao Paulo was closed without any police indictment. The defense has always believed that the investigations would prove Antony’s innocence,” the statement read.

Despite the police investigation in Brazil concluding without an indictment, the case has not been formally dropped. Officials have informed BBC News Brasil that the prosecutor’s office is still reviewing the findings and retains the authority to initiate a separate, independent investigation if deemed necessary.

Antony, who became Manchester United’s second-most expensive signing when he joined from Ajax for £82 million in September 2022, first faced public scrutiny over these allegations during the international break in September 2023. The accusations were initially reported by Brazilian news outlet UOL, which published claims made by Antony’s ex-partner, Gabriela Cavallin, all of which the player denies.

Subsequent allegations were made by two other women, Rayssa de Freitas and Ingrid Lana, who accused Antony of assaulting them in 2022, claims that he also denies. One of the incidents allegedly took place at a Manchester hotel, leading to Greater Manchester Police’s involvement.

In response to the allegations, Manchester United granted Antony a leave of absence with full pay starting on September 10, 2023, to allow him to address the claims. He voluntarily spoke to GMP and resumed training on September 29, returning to action in early October.

However, the ongoing legal matters have reportedly affected Antony’s form on the pitch. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag acknowledged in January that the situation had taken a toll on the player’s performance.

As the legal process continues, Antony’s future both on and off the field remains uncertain, with the potential for further developments depending on the prosecutor’s office’s review of the case in Brazil.

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