Why is Antony not playing for Man United this weekend? As the Brazilian winger takes an indefinite leave of absence from the club

Antony will not play a part in Manchester United’s Premier League clash with Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend.

The 23-year-old is facing claims of domestic abuse, with police investigations opening in Brazil and the UK, while the winger has denied any wrongdoing.

The assault allegations were made by three separate women. They include DJ and influencer Gabriela Cavallin, who has claimed the footballer assaulted her four times and bank worker Ingrid Lana who alleges he pushed her against a wall in Manchester in September last year. He has not been arrested or charged and has promised to ‘come up with the evidence’ to prove the truth. 

Antony, who was who signed for United from Ajax in a £85m deal last year, was recently included in the club’s 25-man Premier League squad.

Mail Sport breaks down why Antony will not be playing for Manchester United this weekend. 

Why is Antony not playing for Manchester United this weekend?

Antony will not play a part of this weekend’s game with Brighton after United and the player mutually agreed an indefinite leave of absence from the club.

He is now expected to stay in Brazil for the time being while he tries to defend himself from allegations he assaulted three women. 

His return date is currently unknown. 

The 23-year-old was recently spotted relaxing by a pool in Sao Paulo as he posed for selfies with fans who recognised him as he enjoyed his downtime.

A statement from Anthony read: ‘I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me.

‘This was a mutual decision to avoid distraction to my team-mates and unnecessary controversy for the club.

‘I want to reiterate my innocence of the things I have been accused of, and I will fully cooperate with the police to help them reach the truth. I look forward to returning to play as soon as possible.’

What has been said on the allegations?

The footballer insisted in his own TV interview in Brazil last Friday: ‘I know the truth and it will come out.’

He also spoke out against domestic violence and insisted he would never harm a woman.

He said: ‘It’s totally wrong, 100 per cent wrong. I have a mother, a sister, and I would never want this to happen to them.

‘I’m 100 per cent sure I’ve never touched a woman, and I’ll come up with the evidence. People will see the truth. I have never assaulted and I will never assault. I’m sure I’ve never committed physical violence.’

Manchester United said in a club statement on Sunday: ‘Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony.

‘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.

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

Manchester United vs Brighton – Key information

Manchester United will go head-to-head with Brighton on Saturday, September 16.

The Premier League clash between the two sides is scheduled to get underway at 3pm.

The two sides last met back in May – with Alexis Mac Allister scoring the only goal of the game for Brighton.