Antony will stay away and NOT return to Man United ‘until further notice’ as club acts amid the domestic abuse allegations his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin made against him

Antony will remain away from Manchester United until further notice as the Brazilian star continues to face domestic violence allegations, the club has announced.

The 23-year-old winger has not been suspended and will be placed on full paid leave to give him time to defend himself against the claims of three women.

But sources say United’s move reflects the seriousness with which the club views the situation and will continue to assess it.

The statement, which follows talks between CEO Richard Arnold and manager Erik ten Hag, comes in the wake of Brazil’s decision to drop Antony from their squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru on Monday evening.

It read: ‘Manchester United acknowledges the allegations against Antony. Players who have not participated in international matches must return to training on Monday.

Gabriela Cavallin, 22, has claimed the Brazilian winger attacked her four times

Antony is facing domestic violence charges but has not been arrested or charged and insists he has done nothing wrong

‘However, it has been agreed with Antony that he will postpone his return until further notice in order to address the allegations.

‘As a club we condemn violence and abuse. We recognize the importance of protecting everyone involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”

Antony has not been arrested, but police in Manchester and Sao Paulo are investigating the claims against him.

The former Ajax player denies all allegations and gave a tearful interview on Brazilian television on Friday evening in which he protested his innocence.

He also made a new statement on Sunday, saying: ‘I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations against me.

The statement follows discussions with Manchester United CEO Richard Arnold

Antony also published a statement saying the decision was ‘mutual’ with the club

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag (photo) will have to miss the player for the foreseeable future

“This was a mutual decision to avoid distraction for my teammates and unnecessary controversy for the club.

“I would like to reiterate my innocence of the things I have been accused of, and I will cooperate fully with the police to help them find the truth. I’m looking forward to playing again as soon as possible.’

Antony’s ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin has accused him of assaulting her four times. Two more women, law student Rayssa de Freitas and banker Ingrid Lana, have come forward in his native Brazil with similar claims of aggressive behavior.

United issued a statement earlier this week saying the club acknowledged the allegations against Antony but is under increasing pressure to act.