Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed that winger Antony will resume training on Saturday and could be available for selection next week, as police inquiries into allegations of violence against him continue. Antony, who denies the allegations, has been on a leave of absence but will now rejoin the first-team squad.
Ten Hag stated that he will assess Antony's mental state before deciding on his availability for Tuesday's Champions League match against Galatasaray. The manager dismissed concerns that Antony's return would be a distraction, saying, 'No, I don't think it's a distraction. We focus on the games and he will do as well.'
The club issued a statement confirming Antony's return, noting that he has cooperated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK. The statement added, '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.'
Antony's former partner Gabriela Cavallin has made allegations being investigated by Greater Manchester Police (GMP). A second woman, Ingrid Lana, has also made allegations. Antony voluntarily attended an interview with GMP on Thursday and was not arrested or detained.
In other injury news, defender Lisandro Martínez is expected to be out for at least two months after aggravating a foot injury. Ten Hag expressed disappointment, noting that Martínez had been playing through pain. Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho remains unavailable after refusing to apologise to Ten Hag for disputing the manager's explanation for his omission from the squad.
