LONDON -- Brazilian forward Antony, who plays for Manchester United, has denied the accusations of abuse from his former partner and declared himself innocent after being withdrawn from the Brazilian national team.
Antony was accused by his ex-girlfriend of hitting her in the head at a hotel in Manchester on January 15th and punching her in the chest, both incidents requiring medical attention.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) stated in a press release that they made the decision to remove the 23-year-old player from the Canarinha to "protect the alleged victim, the player himself," and the team led by coach Fernando Diniz.
Several stars of the Brazil national team arrived in Belém for the start of the World Cup qualifiers.
"I can confidently say that the accusations are false and the evidence I have provided shows that I am innocent," Antony said in a statement.
"My relationship with Miss Gabriela was tumultuous, with verbal offenses from both sides, but there was never any physical aggression. I trust that the police investigation will reveal the truth about my innocence," added the Brazilian.
Antony has played in all four Premier League matches this season for Manchester United, who have not yet commented on the case.