Dani Alves was detained early Friday by Spanish police following allegations of sexual assault. The former Barcelona and Brazil national team star has been under investigation since the beginning of the month for an incident at a nightclub in late December.

A woman alleges that Alves touched her inappropriately while at Sutton nightclub in Barcelona. According to a report by ESPN, the accuser informed security at the venue what took place. Police were then brought in to take statements from the woman and other witnesses in the vicinity.

Alves previously denied accusations

The 39-year-old Alves has since denied the allegations. He went on Spanish television network Antena 3 in early January to discuss the situation. “I would like to deny everything, first,” stated Alves. “I was there, in that location, with more people, having a good time. Everybody knows that I love to dance. Having a good time, but without invading the space of others.”

“I’m very sorry, but I don’t know who that young lady is. I don’t know who she is. I’ve never seen her in my life.”

Brazilian will soon face judge

Nevertheless, Spanish police have detained Alves and he will be transferred to a Spanish court. The Brazilian must face questions from a judge on the incident. Sources from the aforementioned news outlet could not confirm whether or not this court date will take place on Friday or during the weekend.

Dani Alves arrested

Alves played over 400 total matches with Barcelona during two separate stints with the Spanish giants. He is one of the most decorated soccer players of his generation. In fact, Alves helped Barca collect six LaLiga titles, three UEFA Champions League trophies, and four Copa del Rey triumphs. All of this silverware was won between 2008 and 2016.

The former Brazil international has been playing with Pumas UNAM for the current campaign. He departed Barca on a free transfer last summer. He will now obviously miss matches for the Mexican club during the police investigation.

Photo: Imago