Manchester United say they're taking Antony's assault allegations seriously.
Assault allegations against striker Antony have prompted a police inquiry and resulted in his exclusion from the Brazil national team for two World Cup qualifiers, according to Manchester United.
Following charges of physical assault against him from his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin, local media source UOL revealed Antony's withdrawal on Monday, according to the Brazilian football organisation (CBF).
The athlete has refuted any misconduct.
After deciding to let go of another striker, Mason Greenwood, the English Premier League team felt forced to respond to the accusations against Antony.
Following accusations of violence and attempted rape, Manchester United said last month that Greenwood would depart Old Trafford in order to avoid being a "distraction".
Prosecutors claimed that "the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light" were the reasons why the charges were withdrawn in February. Greenwood, 21, signed a season-long loan agreement with Getafe last Friday.
Manchester United stated that it took the case against Antony seriously and took into account how the allegations and subsequent reporting would affect abuse survivors.
The club stated that while they were aware of the police investigation, they would reserve any comment until they had more details.
The Brazilian federation stated that Antony's removal from the team was done "in order to protect the player, the player's national team, the CBF, and the alleged victim."
Due to the ongoing police investigation, Antony said he was unable to provide any additional information on the allegations, but he could "confidently state" that they were untrue.
An ongoing police inquiry was confirmed to Reuters by a representative of Brazil's Public Security Secretariat.
In order to fill Antony's spot, Brazil coach Fernando Diniz has called up Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus.
Brazil's 2026 World Cup qualification campaign begins on Friday with a home game against Bolivia and four days later, a trip to Peru.
