Brazil replaces Antony with Jesus over assault claim involving ex-girlfriend

Manchester United winger Antony has been excluded from the Brazilian squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifying games, following allegations of assault made against him by his ex-girlfriend. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) released a statement stating that Antony had been stood down in order to protect the alleged victim, the player, the Brazil team, and the CBF.

In Antony’s place, Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus will join the squad for the matches against Bolivia on September 8th and Peru on September 12th.

Antony, 23, took to Instagram to deny the physical assault accusations made by his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin, claiming that he is the victim of false accusations. He stated confidently that the evidence already produced and forthcoming will prove his innocence.

These denials came after Brazilian media published purported WhatsApp messages between Antony and Cavallin, in which Antony allegedly threatened his ex-partner. In one of the conversations, Cavallin mentions apologizing for kicks and assaults, to which Antony responds with “sorry.” Additionally, there is a photo showing Cavallin with an apparent head wound.

Antony admitted that his relationship with Cavallin was tumultuous, with verbal abuse from both sides. However, he firmly denied ever engaging in physical aggression, asserting that he never practiced it. He expressed his confidence in the ongoing police investigations to reveal the truth.

September 4, 2023