Antony's accuser drops complaint filed in 2022; Manchester United attacker still facing allegations from 2 other women
Manchester United forward Antony has found some partial relief, as one of the three allegations against him has been withdrawn.
The 23-year-old Brazil international, currently embroiled in controversies surrounding accusations of violent behavior, continues to face police investigations in both Sao Paulo and Manchester. Antony, who has firmly denied all allegations, has neither been arrested nor charged as of this time.
Rayssa de Freitas, a law student who had accused Antony of attacking her in a car in May 2022, has fully retracted her report, according to The Telegraph (via Daily Mail). The incident, which also allegedly involved Mallu Ohana, the ex-wife of Brazilian footballer Dudu, was reported to the Sao Paulo Civil Police.
The circumstances surrounding the retraction remain unclear, but it is believed that both women had previously accused each other of sexual assault. De Freitas had purportedly sought medical attention following the incident.
The case's withdrawal comes at a pivotal moment but does not eradicate the looming challenges for the Manchester United player.
Another claimant, 33-year-old banker Ingrid Lana, continues to accuse Antony of aggressive behavior, as shared in a recent interview with Record TV in Brazil. Gabriela Cavallin, the footballer's ex-girlfriend, also maintains her accusations of assault on four separate occasions, which are under active investigation.
The Red Devils were reportedly unaware of the third case involving De Freitas until it was publicized by Brazilian media earlier this month. This revelation is especially significant as the alleged incident occurred three months prior to Antony's £85 million transfer to the Premier League club.
The club maintain that they conducted thorough due diligence checks on the winger, uncovering no evidence of the claims now being brought against him.
Antony, who had a two-season stint at Ajax under current Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, moved to Old Trafford in September 2022. As the legal proceedings unfold, the club have placed Antony on paid leave until further notice.
Manchester United set their sights on Real Madrid defender David Alaba: Reports
Real Madrid's David Alaba has been identified as a transfer target by Manchester United, according to reports from Catalan outlet El Nacional. Los Blancos seem willing to part ways with the Austrian defender, signaling a period of potential reshuffling in their ranks.
Alaba's performance last season did not meet the high expectations set by the club, sparking discussions about alterations to the squad. Despite registering an impressive 18 clean sheets in 46 appearances during his debut season, and winning the Champions League, Alaba saw a decline in form last season.
He managed 13 clean sheets in 39 appearances, reflecting Real Madrid's overall struggles. Alaba reportedly views a move to Old Trafford as a promising alternative. With a price tag of €40 million set by the Spaniards, United appear willing to meet the financial demands to secure the experienced defender.