Former Barcelona Star Dani Alves to Stand Trial for Sexual Assault

Former Barcelona and Brazil footballer Dani Alves will face trial in Barcelona on Monday for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a nightclub bathroom in 2022. The 40 years old defender who has been held in prison since his arrest in January last year initially denied the encounter but later admitted to consensual sex with the accuser.

The case has drawn significant attention due to Alves’ prominence and Spain’s heightened focus on sexual assault issues exacerbated by recent high  profile incidents. A Spanish prosecutor is seeking a nine years prison term and damages of €150,000 for the woman.

The trial expected to last three days will include testimony from Alves the alleged victim and approximately 30 other witnesses. The victim’s identity will be protected reflecting Spain’s strict laws on sexual assault cases.

Alves known for his illustrious football career was terminated by Mexico’s Pumas UNAM following his arrest.