Former Brazilian soccer star Robinho detained following unsuccessful appeal

Former Brazilian footballer Robson de Souza, also known as Robinho, was arrested by Federal Police in Santos, São Paulo. His lawyer confirmed the news to CNN Brasil, as police cars were observed leaving his residence.

The 40-year-old former AC Milan and Brazil striker has been convicted in Italy for his involvement in the gang rape of a woman in 2013. He faces a nine-year prison sentence for the crime, which occurred after the victim was given alcohol in a Milan nightclub by Robinho and five other men.

Robinho was arrested after Brazil’s Supreme Court (STF) rejected his appeal to stay out of jail while he exhausts all legal options against his conviction. The STF ordered for his prison sentence to start immediately.

Dani Alves most recently played for Mexican side Pumas.

Dani Alves most recently played for Mexican side Pumas.

Henry Romero/Reuters

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The footballer’s defense team requested Brazilian authorities to let Robinho serve his jail time in Italy instead of Brazil. They also asked for him to stay free during the appeal process, as per the STF decision. Robinho has consistently maintained his innocence.

Robinho is expected to have a custody hearing on Friday after his arrest on Thursday. He will then be sent to a detention facility to start serving his prison sentence, as reported by CNN Brasil.

He began his career at Brazilian club Santos and later transferred to Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid in 2005, where he achieved two La Liga titles.

He became known as one of the top young players globally and made a big transfer to Manchester City in 2008. However, his performance declined, and he played for different clubs worldwide for the rest of his career.

During his career, he represented Brazil 100 times and was instrumental in leading his country to triumph at the Copa América in 2007.

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