Renowned Brazilian soccer player Dani Alves has been released from prison after submitting a €1 million bond (approximately $1.08 million) as required by a Barcelona court, the Supreme Court of Justice of Catalonia confirmed on Monday. Alves, who had been convicted of sexual assault, transferred the bond amount into the account of Section 21 of the Provincial Court of Barcelona in Spain. The 40-year-old was then seen leaving the Brians 2 penitentiary center accompanied by his lawyer, Inés Guardiola.

On February 22, the Barcelona provincial court handed Alves a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence for sexually assaulting a woman in a nightclub in late December 2022. Following the conviction and sentencing, Alves's lawyer announced their intention to appeal. The Barcelona Prosecutor's Office and the plaintiff also stated their decision to appeal Alves's provisional release.

As a condition of his release, Alves will have both his Brazilian and Spanish passports confiscated. He will also be prohibited from leaving Spanish territory and is required to make weekly appearances at the provincial court. Furthermore, Alves has been issued a restraining order, mandating that he stay at least one kilometer (approximately 0.6 miles) away from the plaintiff's home, workplace, and any other locations she frequents. Additionally, he is barred from any form of communication with the victim.

Despite the serious legal consequences he currently faces, Alves boasts an impressive soccer career. Recognized as one of the most decorated players of his generation, he has won domestic titles in Spain, Italy, and France. Notably, Alves achieved three UEFA Champions League titles with Barcelona in 2009, 2011, and 2015, and also secured victories in the Copa América with Brazil in 2007 and 2019.

The appeal process will likely shed further light on the case, as both Alves and the prosecution seek to challenge the court's decision. The outcome of these appeals will dictate the future course of action for the high-profile soccer star.