Brazil has decided to drop Manchester United winger Antony Santos from their squad for two upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers amid reports of alleged domestic abuse against his ex-girlfriend published by the Brazilian media.
The Brazilian Soccer Confederation said Antony will not be part of the team for games against Bolivia and Peru “due to the facts that became public on Monday.”
Antony’s ex-girlfriend reported him to police on May 20 over alleged domestic violence, accusations that he denied in June and again on Monday.
Also Read: Spain men’s team denounces chief Luis Rubiales in support of Jenni Hermoso
Brazilian media published alleged exchanges between the two in which the player appeared to threaten and intimidate the woman on several occasions.
Brazil’s soccer body said the case “needs to be investigated” and that the player’s removal was aimed at protecting him, the alleged victim, and the national team.
Sao Paulo police confirmed to The Associated Press that an investigation is ongoing but did not provide details.
The 23-year-old Antony posted a statement on Instagram earlier Monday before he was removed from the team, saying, “I vehemently deny the accusations.”
Also Read: Lionel Messi’s security BREACHED! Pitch invader grabs Leo before bodyguard intervenes
He said his relationship with the woman had been “tumultuous” but that he never physically attacked her.
“Every moment, in testimonies or in interviews, she brings a different version of the accusations,” Antony wrote.
Antony played for Brazil at the World Cup in Qatar and has scored two goals in 16 games for the national team.
Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus was called up to the national team as a replacement for the two games.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
"Started playing cricket for money": Sajana Sajeevan sheds light on turning point that propelled her to India debut
Top Stories
