Catalonia’s highest court on Thursday convicted former Brazilian football star Dani Alves of sexually assaulting a woman in a Barcelona nightclub in 2022, handing him a 4½-year prison sentence. Additionally, he was ordered to pay €150,000 ($162,990) to the victim. The court asserted that the victim did not consent, citing evidence beyond her testimony to establish the assault.

Alves, who had claimed the encounter was consensual, plans to appeal the verdict. His lawyers expressed disagreement with the sentencing, emphasizing Alves’ innocence.

The prosecution had sought a nine-year prison term, while the victim’s lawyer expressed satisfaction with the sentence, though they intend to review its adequacy.

Alves, 40, was arrested in January 2023 and has been in pre-trial detention since. His account of the incident changed multiple times, with him eventually admitting to sexual activity but alleging consent and admitting to lying initially to conceal infidelity.

During the trial, Alves mentioned being intoxicated on the night in question, a claim that can affect sentencing. Witnesses offered conflicting testimonies regarding the events of that evening, with some describing the victim as distressed after leaving the bathroom and others asserting that she appeared fine.

A forensic psychologist testified to the woman experiencing post-traumatic symptoms, though this was challenged by a defense expert.

Despite the legal proceedings, Alves’ illustrious football career, which included stints with Barcelona, Juventus, PSG, and the Brazilian national team, has been marred by this incident. His contract with Pumas, a Mexican club, was terminated following his arrest.