Brazilian police close investigation over abuse claims against Manchester United winger Antony
The winger had denied wrongdoing after allegations of domestic abuse
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Brazilian police investigation into Manchester United player Antony has been closed, according to a report from the BBC.
The 24-year-old denied wrongdoing after allegations of domestic abuse and is still under investigation from Greater Manchester Police.
The BBC claim prosecutors in Brazil could still decide to investigate independently, although Antony has not been arrested or charged.
A statement from the player’s lawyers said: "The defence of player Antony Matheus dos Santos, in light of the news published by the press this Tuesday (20 August 2024), hereby confirms that the police investigation opened at the fifth Women’s Defense Precinct of Sao Paulo, of the Civil Police, was closed without any police indictment.
"The defence has always believed that the investigations, that run under confidentiality, would prove Antony’s innocence."
The allegations came to light in September last year when Brazilian news outlet UOL published claims made by Antony’s ex-partner Gabriela Cavallin.
Antony, who was given leave with full pay and returned to training later that month, denied the allegations.
Rayssa de Freitas and Ingrid Lana later came forward with further allegations of assault, one of which was said to have happened at a Manchester hotel.
United released a statement in September 2023, which said: “Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony and notes that the police are conducting enquiries. Pending further information, the club will be making no further comments.
“As a club we are taking this matter seriously, with consideration of the impact of these allegations and subsequent reporting will have on survivors of abuse.”