In criminal cases, the presumption of innocence means that individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in court. This allows them to carry on with their daily activities while investigations are conducted.
Manchester United has endured a season filled with both on- and off-pitch challenges. These include a plethora of first-team injuries, the controversy surrounding Jadon Sancho’s behavior, and Antony’s sexual assault case. Despite these difficulties, the return of Antony could potentially inject a more positive element into their offensive play and help the team find a better balance.
Manchester United’s statement on Antony
Antony Matheus dos Santos, a 23-year-old left-winger who plays for Manchester United, was accused by his ex-girlfriend, Gabriela Cavallin, and two other women (one of whom has dropped her case, as per DailyMail, of physically attacking and causing them bodily harm.
The allegations levelled against the Brazilian pertain to multiple incidents that trace back to January. Antony has vehemently denied these claims. Investigations into these allegations are currently underway, with both Greater Manchester Police and Brazilian authorities involved in the process.
Antony is reported to be fully cooperating with the authorities and has expressed his willingness to provide his phone to assist in their investigations. It’s noteworthy that, as of now, Brazilian law enforcement has not discovered any evidence incriminating Antony.
Following this development, particularly Antony’s cooperation and the presumption of innocence, the Manchester United board has decided to reintegrate Antony into the squad.
The issued Manchester United statement to the effect of Antony’s re-integration reads; “Since allegations were first made in June, Antony has co-operated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK, and he continues to do so.
“As Antony’s employer, Manchester United has decided that he will resume training at Carrington, and be available for selection, while police inquiries proceed. This will be kept under review pending further developments in the case.”
“As a club, we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”
Erik teg Hag reacts to Antony’s return
Manchester United is already short of personnel, with several first-team players sidelined due to injury. The club issued a statement reintegrating Antony into the squad despite concerns that the ‘accused’ might be distracted, considering the rough patch he has gone through.
The manager expressed his belief that reinstating Antony, despite the serious allegations made by three women, would not create a distraction for his team. However, he refrained from providing additional information beyond the statement issued by United that clarified the decision.
It’s been decided that Antony will resume training on Saturday. Hence he will not feature against Crystal Palace, but he may be in the squad facing Galatasaray in their second Champions League encounter.
Erik Ten Hag referred to the Club’s statement when he was asked if Antony would be distracted following his return to the squad. However, he added briefly, “I refer to the statement, everything has been made clear in the statement, I don’t think it’s a distraction….We will focus on the games.”
Are you happy to see Antony return to the Red Devils squad? Make sure to tell us in the comments.
