Antony withdrawn from Brazil squad as police confirm investigation into abuse allegations

Manchester United forward Antony has been dropped by the Brazil national team following abuse allegations by his former girlfriend, with police confirming they are investigating.

“I can say with confidence that the accusations are false and that the evidence already produced show that I am innocent of the accusations made,” Antony said on social media.

“My relationship with Ms Gabriela was tumultuous, with verbal offences from both sides, but I never practiced any physical aggression.

“I trust that the ongoing police investigations will demonstrate the truth about my innocence.”

A statement from the Brazilian Football Confederation read: “As a result of the facts that have come to light, and which need to be investigated, and in order to safeguard the supposed victim, the player, and the Brazilian national team the CBF have withdrawn [him] from the squad.”

Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus will replace Antony in the Brazil squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru.