Dani Alves: Ex-Barcelona star convicted of r*pe dragged to court by former club for breaching 'code of conduct'

Dani Alves is facing fresh legal woes as his former club, Mexican side Pumas, reportedly sues the disgraced footballer for up to €6 million for breaching the 'code of conduct' in his contract. 

The lawsuit comes as the ex-Barcelona and PSG defender awaits the outcome of his appeal against a rape conviction that sent shockwaves through the football world.

The 41-year-old Brazilian's professional career came to a screeching halt in early 2024 after he was convicted of rape, following accusations from a woman at a Barcelona nightclub in December 2022. 

Despite maintaining his innocence, Alves spent 13 months behind bars before securing bail by paying €1 million and surrendering his passport.

Alves signed a two-year contract with Pumas in the summer of 2023, but the deal was terminated just five months later as the allegations surfaced. 

Now, according to Sport, the Liga MX outfit is taking legal action through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking €6 million in damages.

The club accuses Alves of “non-compliance with the code of conduct in his contract, which including bringing the club into disrepute”.

 Pumas claim the scandal severely tarnished their reputation, justifying their demand for hefty compensation.

Despite the court’s verdict, Alves has consistently proclaimed his innocence since the allegations first emerged. 

The former Brazil international voluntarily handed himself over to authorities upon learning that the alleged victim had filed an official complaint.

His legal team is pushing for a successful appeal, which is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. 

However, the looming financial battle with Pumas threatens to heap further misery on the embattled star.

Once revered as one of football’s most decorated players, Alves' fall from grace has been nothing short of dramatic. 

His illustrious career saw him win 43 trophies, including multiple Champions League and La Liga titles, making him one of the most successful players in the sport's history.