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Daniel "Dani" Alves da Silva (Portuguese: [dɐniˈɛw ˈawviz dɐ ˈsiwvɐ]; born 6 May 1983) is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a right-back. Widely regarded as one of the best full-backs of all time, he is also one of the most decorated players with 43 trophies.

Key Information

Starting his career at Bahia in 2001, Alves went on to have a successful six-year spell with Sevilla, winning two UEFA Cups and the Copa del Rey. He joined Barcelona for €32.5 million,[3] becoming the third-most expensive defender of all-time at the time. He won the treble in his first season with the club and in the next season, won the Supercopa de España, UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup. Additionally, he helped the club to clinch another two Supercopa de España, five La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League titles in the years that followed.

In 2016, Juventus signed Alves on a free transfer.[4] He won the 2016–17 Serie A title and 2016–17 Coppa Italia in his only season with the side, also reaching the Champions League Final.[5] In 2017, Alves joined French side Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, winning a domestic treble in his first season, followed by another league title the following season.[6] In 2019, he returned to his home country, joining São Paulo, and winning the 2021 Campeonato Paulista with them. He returned to Barcelona in 2021 for one season, and joined Mexican club UNAM in 2022. UNAM terminated his contract in 2023 after he was charged with sexual assault.

A full international for Brazil from 2006 to 2022, Alves is the nation's third most-capped player of all time. He was included in their squads for three FIFA World Cups and five Copa América tournaments, winning the 2007 and 2019 editions of the latter competition, as well as the 2009 and 2013 FIFA Confederations Cups. At the Summer Olympics in 2020, he won a gold medal. Individually, Alves was named in the IFFHS CONMEBOL Team of the Decade (2011–2020), FIFA Confederations Cup Team of the Tournament (2013), the Copa América Team of the Tournament (2019), and was awarded the Copa América Best Player (2019).

Early life

[edit]

Alves was born in Juazeiro, a city in the Brazilian state of Bahia, to father Domingos Alves da Silva, a farmer. He played football with the neighboring kids. Alves' father had a passion for football as well, and eventually managed to organize his own football team. Alves, at age 6, started as a winger, but because of the lack of goals he scored, his father re-positioned him as a right back, a position he still plays up to this day. Alves worked as a farmer and a trader in his youth.[7][8]

Club career

[edit]

Bahia

[edit]

Alves made his professional debut for Bahia in a match against Paraná Clube for the 2001 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. Bahia won 3–0, with Alves providing two assists and winning a penalty for the other goal. Head coach Evaristo de Macedo thereafter gave him a starting place in the team. In Bahia, he won the 2002 Copa do Nordeste. His consistently good performances landed him a transfer, at first on loan, to Spanish side Sevilla, midway through 2002.[9]

Sevilla

[edit]
Alves with Sevilla in 2007

After 2002–03, on loan to Sevilla from Bahia, Alves travelled to play in the 2003 FIFA World Youth Championship, where he impressed as Brazil won the tournament. He was named the third-best player of the tournament and, after this, the Sevilla move was made permanent.

In June 2006, Sevilla agreed to sell Alves to Liverpool, but Liverpool were unable to match Sevilla's asking price of around £8 million.[10] In December 2006, he signed a new contract with Sevilla, tying him to the club until 2012.[11] He had a successful 2006–07 season, making 47 appearances and scoring 5 goals. He played in every one of Sevilla's UEFA Cup matches, in a competition which the club went on to win.

From his years in Spain, Alves acquired Spanish citizenship, thus allowing him to bypass any non-EU quota restrictions and exempting him from needing a work permit to play in any EU countries.[12]

On 1 August 2007, Alves told SporTV he wanted to leave Sevilla for a European giant,[13] later reiterating his desire to leave Sevilla to Marca, saying he was flattered by Chelsea's interest and that he could never turn down such an opportunity.[14] In an interview with Antena 3 on 8 August, Alves confirmed his agent had been in England for some time handling Chelsea's offer, urging Sevilla to at least consider the offer.[15]

On 16 August 2007, Sevilla rejected an unspecified Chelsea bid and, six days later, rejected another two bids from Chelsea, considering them to be "way below what was expected".[16][17] Alves later revealed his dismay with Sevilla club president José María del Nido for having knocked back Chelsea's offers for his services after his move to Stamford Bridge collapsed, with Chelsea signing fellow Brazilian full back Juliano Belletti for a much lower fee.[18] After a public war of words between Alves and Del Nido,[19] as well as the death of teammate Antonio Puerta, Alves decided to stay with Sevilla, with player and president ostensibly reconciled.[20]

Barcelona

[edit]
Alves playing against Rubin Kazan in the 2008-09 UEFA Champions League

On 2 July 2008, Alves joined Barcelona, leaving Sevilla in tears and saying he would love to play for the club again. He said he came to Sevilla as a boy and was leaving as a man.[21] The official price of the transfer stood at £23 million up-front, with approximately £7 million more depending on a number of performance-related factors over the next few seasons of Alves' Barcelona career, making him one of the most expensive defenders in history and the third-most expensive player bought by Barça. He signed a four-year contract with Barcelona, which included a buy-out clause of €90 million. Alves made his competitive and European debuts for Barcelona against Wisła Kraków in the 2008–09 UEFA Champions League third-round qualifiers on 13 August 2008.[22] He made his La Liga debut in the Liga season-opener away to Numancia on 31 August 2008.[23] Later on in his debut season, he missed the 2009 UEFA Champions League Final due to a yellow-card suspension, although Barcelona nonetheless defeated Manchester United 2–0 to complete the treble after also winning La Liga and the 2008–09 Copa del Rey.

Alves and Lionel Messi during the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup Final

In his second season at Barça, the club retained the Liga title and won the 2009 FIFA Club World Cup. In the 2010–11 season, Alves was instrumental in Barcelona's winning of their third consecutive Liga title.

On 28 May 2011, Alves played in his first Champions League final as Barcelona defeated Manchester United 3–1 at Wembley Stadium to win its fourth European Cup.

In 2011–12, Alves was part of a Barcelona team that won the Copa del Rey and the Club World Cup. In 2012–13, Alves won the Liga title for the fourth time in his five seasons at Barça.

In 2013–14, Alves wore shirt number 22, formerly worn by his friend Eric Abidal, to whom he offered to donate part of his liver during Abidal's treatment for liver cancer.[24]

Banana incident

[edit]
Further information: Banana (slur)

On 27 April 2014, during a match at Villarreal's stadium, El Madrigal, Alves was targeted by a Villarreal supporter,[25] who threw a banana at him as a gesture of racial abuse. Alves picked up the banana, peeled it and took a bite.[26] He responded to the incident by saying: "We have suffered this in Spain for some time. You have to take it with a dose of humour. We aren't going to change things easily. If you don't give it importance, they don't achieve their objective."[27] Teammate Neymar's response – to post a photograph of himself on social media also eating a banana – went viral.[28] Other footballers have also since taken photographs of themselves eating bananas.[29] Cyrille Regis, who had been racially abused while a player in the 1970s and 1980s, expressed concern that the viral campaign would detract from the important issues of combating racism in the game.[30]

Alves said that whoever threw the banana at him should be publicly shamed,[31] and on 30 April 2014, a man was arrested in connection with the incident.[32] Villarreal were later fined €12,000 for the incident.[33]

Third Champions League title

[edit]

On 6 June 2015, Alves started for Barça in the 2015 Champions League final as the club won its fifth European Cup by beating Juventus at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.[34] This made Barcelona the first club in history to win the treble of domestic league, domestic cup and European Cup twice.[35] Alves, Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, Xavi, Gerard Piqué, Pedro and Sergio Busquets are the only players to have been a part of both treble-winning teams.[35]

On 9 June 2015, Alves signed a two-year contract with Barcelona, keeping him at the club until 30 June 2017, with the option to extend a further year.[36]

Final season

[edit]

After Barcelona were eliminated by compatriots Atlético Madrid in the quarter-finals of the 2015–16 UEFA Champions League, Alves recorded a "bizarre" video in which he impersonated his wife consoling him for the defeat, and posted it on Instagram; manager Luis Enrique subsequently dropped him from the following match against Valencia.[37]

On 2 June 2016, Roberto Fernández, Barcelona's technical secretary, announced Alves was leaving Barcelona that summer after eight years.[38] Although under contract until 30 June 2017, Alves contract had a clause allowing him to leave as a free agent.

Juventus

[edit]

On 27 June 2016, Juventus announced the signing of Alves on a two-year deal with the option of a third year.[4] He made his Juventus debut on 20 August in a 2–1 home win over Fiorentina in Serie A.[39] On 21 September, Alves scored his first goal with Juventus in a 4–0 home win over Cagliari,[40] before opening his Champions League account with the club against Dinamo Zagreb six days later.[41] On 27 November, he suffered a broken leg in Juventus' 3–1 defeat to Genoa.[42] Alves made his return from injury as a substitute in a 1–0 Derby d'Italia win over Internazionale on 5 February 2017.[43]

On 9 May 2017, Alves scored once and assisted a goal for Mario Mandžukić as Juventus defeated Monaco 2–1 to qualify for the 2017 Champions League final.[44] Six days earlier, Alves had assisted both goals for Gonzalo Higuaín in the first leg of the tie at the Stade Louis II.[45] On 17 May, Alves scored the opening goal of a 2–0 win over Lazio in the 2017 Coppa Italia Final.[46] On 3 June, Alves appeared in his third UEFA Champions League final as Juventus were defeated 4–1 by Real Madrid at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.[47]

Alves playing for PSG in 2018

On 29 June 2017, Alves had his contract with Juventus terminated by mutual consent. He made 33 appearances, winning the 2016–17 Serie A title and 2016–17 Coppa Italia in his one season in Turin.[5]

Paris Saint-Germain

[edit]

On 12 July 2017, Alves joined French side Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract.[6] He made his debut for the club on 29 July in the 2017 Trophée des Champions, scoring once and assisting the winning goal for Adrien Rabiot in a 2–1 victory over 2016–17 Ligue 1 champions Monaco.[48] On 5 August, Alves assisted Edinson Cavani for PSG's first goal of the 2017–18 Ligue 1 season in a 2–0 win over Amiens at the Parc des Princes.[49]

On 8 May 2018, he started in the 2018 Coupe de France Final, as PSG defeated Les Herbiers VF 2–0 to clinch the 2017–18 Coupe de France title; he came off in the 86th minute for Thomas Meunier, after sustaining an injury.[50]

On 28 August 2018, Alves announced through a post on his Instagram page changing his squad number from 32 to 13 in tribute to Brazilian legend and four-time World Cup winner Mário Zagallo.[51]

After his contract with the club expired on 30 June 2019, Alves became a free agent.[52]

São Paulo

[edit]

On 1 August 2019, São Paulo announced the signing of Dani Alves on a contract that runs until December 2022.[53] A lifelong supporter of São Paulo, Alves had previously on numerous occasions declared his wish of playing for the club. He was received at the Morumbi stadium, in front of 44,000 fans. Idols of the club's recent history, such as Hernanes, Kaká and Luís Fabiano were responsible for welcoming him.

Starting his journey in São Paulo FC at Morumbi stadium, Alves commented:

Do not stop believing in your dreams because they are possible. Now, after having gone around the world, it is the first club that I wear the shirt and I am a fan. It is a thrill to receive this mantle, and the moment has come.[54]

Alves received the number 10 shirt upon his arrival.[55] He made his debut on 18 August 2019, scoring the only goal in a 1–0 league win over Ceará at the Morumbi.[56] Despite being a right-back throughout his career, he generally played in central midfield during his time at São Paulo, mainly during Fernando Diniz's tenure between 2019 and 2021. He was also made first team captain at the time of his arrival.[57][58][59] In 2021, new manager Hernán Crespo made Alves return to a more defensive role, playing him as a right-sided wingback.[60] At the same time, he gave the captain's armband to Miranda, who was returning to the club after a decade. In May, he won his only title with the club and the 42nd of his career, the Campeonato Paulista, which also ended São Paulo's 8-year trophyless period.

On 10 September 2021, Alves' representatives communicated to São Paulo that he would no longer return to training and subsequently play for the club following a dispute over unpaid image rights.[61] His contract was terminated six days later.[62]

São Paulo FC's footballing director Carlos Belmonte stated:

Daniel Alves and Miranda were serving the Brazilian team and should have returned to start regular training for out next games [on Friday]. Miranda attended and trained normally, but Daniel Alves did not attend. We were then informed by his representatives that Daniel Alves will not return to São Paulo until the settlement of the debt that São Paulo has with the athlete. A debt that São Paulo recognises and last week made a proposal seeking the right outcome, which was not accepted by the representatives. From our point of view, we have taken the decision that Daniel Alves will no longer be available to play for São Paulo. São Paulo is more important than all of us.[62]

Since then, São Paulo has agreed, in the same month, to pay Alves R$400,000 monthly over the next 5 years starting from January 2022. This is being done to cover the R$18 million debt at the time of the breakup, owing to the contract agreed in 2019, who São Paulo FC were increasingly unable to pay him then.[63]

Return to Barcelona

[edit]

On 12 November 2021, Barcelona announced an agreement in principle to sign Alves on a deal until the end of the season. He only became available for the team's official matches starting January 2022.[64] In December 2021, he made his second debut for the Blaugrana in a friendly, honoring Diego Maradona, match against Boca Juniors,[65][66] and made his debut in official matches for the Blaugrana on 5 January 2022, in a Copa del Rey 2–1 win over Linares Deportivo.[67] On 6 February 2022, he scored for the first time since returning, in Barça's 4–2 home win over Atlético Madrid in the league; he also provided an assist for Jordi Alba and was sent off for a foul on Yannick Carrasco in the same match.[68]

On 15 June 2022, Alves announced via a post on his Instagram account that he would leave Barcelona for the second time, having made 408 competitive appearances for the club in total, the second most by a player from abroad, with only Lionel Messi having played more.[69]

UNAM

[edit]

On 23 July 2022, Alves signed a one-year contract with Liga MX club UNAM.[70]

For the 2022–23 Torneo Clausura, Alves decided to change his shirt number from 33[71] to 77.[72]

On 20 January 2023, following his arrest for sexual assault allegation, UNAM decided to end Alves' contract with the club.[73]

International career

[edit]

Early career and 2007 Copa América title

[edit]

Alves made his Brazil debut as a substitute in an unofficial friendly match against Kuwaiti club Al-Kuwait Selection on 7 October 2006. Three days later, he earned his first international cap in a friendly against Ecuador. He was included in Brazil's team for the 2007 Copa América. He appeared in four matches including the final against Argentina on 15 July, where he gave an assist to Roberto Ayala's own goal and scored a goal himself in the 3–0 victory.[74]

2009 Confederations Cup title, 2010 World Cup, and 2011 Copa América

[edit]

Despite being the most expensive right-back in history at the time, he was initially unable to hold down a regular starting spot in the Brazilian national team, with Maicon being the first choice ahead of him. Alves came on as a substitute in the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup semi-final against South Africa and scored the winner, a free-kick and a goal in the 88th minute in a 1–0 win.[75] The following summer, he was named to Brazil's squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.[76][77] He scored another long-range free-kick against Iran on 7 October 2010. The following year, Alves was included in Brazil's 23-man squad for the 2011 Copa América in Argentina.[78]

2013 Confederations Cup title and 2014 World Cup

[edit]
Alves celebrates the win of the 2013 Confederations Cup title

Alves was part of the 23 players called by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari to play in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup on home soil.[79] He started in Brazil's 3–0 victory over Spain in the final on 30 June, at the Maracanã Stadium.[80]

On 7 May 2014, Alves was named to Brazil's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup on home soil.[81] He lost his position as a starter during the competition due to poor performances. After Brazil defeated Colombia 2–1 in the quarter-finals, Alves and teammate David Luiz were applauded for comforting James Rodríguez, an act they were both commended for by both Rodríguez and the media for showing respect.[82]

2015 Copa América, and Copa América Centenario, and 2018 World Cup qualifying

[edit]

Alves was picked as a starter in both the 2015[83] and Centenario Copa América tournaments by manager Dunga.[84] He retained his position following the appointment of Tite and helped Brazil secure qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, but was ruled out of the tournament due to a knee injury suffered in the 2018 Coupe de France Final.[85]

2019 Copa América title

[edit]

In May 2019, he was included in Brazil's 23-man squad for the 2019 Copa América on home soil.[86] He went on to replace Neymar as Brazil captain for the tournament.[87] In the team's final group match against Peru in São Paulo on 22 June, Alves scored in a 5–0 win, which saw Brazil advance to the quarter-finals.[88] In the final, on 7 July, at the Maracanã Stadium, Brazil faced Peru once again, and won the match 3–1 to win the title; Alves was subsequently named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.[89][90] The 2019 edition of the Copa América was the 40th title of his career.[91]

2020 Summer Olympics

[edit]

On 17 June 2021, Alves was named in the Brazil squad for the 2020 Summer Olympics.[92] In the final, Brazil faced Spain and won the gold medal following a 2–1 victory after an extra time goal by Malcom.[93] At 38, he became the oldest footballer to ever win a medal in the men's Olympic football tournament, and the third oldest player overall behind Ryan Giggs in 2012 and Ricardo Piccinini in 1988.[94]

2022 FIFA World Cup

[edit]

On 7 November 2022, at age 39, Alves was named in the squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.[95]

By starting in his side's final group stage fixture against Cameroon, Alves became the oldest ever player to feature in a World Cup match for Brazil, at the age of 39 years and 210 days.[96]

Style of play

[edit]
Alves competing for the ball against Chile's Gonzalo Jara at the 2010 FIFA World Cup

Regarded as one of the best full-backs of his generation, and of all time, Alves is an offensive right-back or wing-back who is known in particular for his pace, stamina, overlapping attacking runs, and technical skills, which also enable him to play in midfield, or as a winger; he is also gifted with good crossing accuracy and distribution, which allows him to link up with midfielders, and makes him an effective assist provider along the right flank. In addition to his ability to create chances, he is an accurate striker of the ball, and is known for his ability to score goals in particular from outside the area or long-range set-pieces.

Despite not being particularly imposing physically, he possesses significant strength and tenacity, which along with his energy, anticipation and work-rate, enable him to intercept passes or chase down and press opponents when not in possession, thus allowing him to aid his team both offensively and defensively. However, despite his skill and offensive ability, he has drawn criticism at times in the media for neglecting the defensive aspect of his game.[97][98][99][100][101][102]

During his time with Paris Saint-Germain, he also played as a central midfielder on occasion.[103] He continued to play in a free role in midfield during his time with São Paulo,[104] citing his desire to play in the middle in order to have more touches on the ball as the reason for this tactical switch, as out wide he had felt more isolated, and less capable of creating chances for his team.[105] Regarding his unique interpretation of the full-back role throughout his career, Alves commented in 2019:

I'm a full-back who plays a combination game. But here – because of the characteristics of Brazilian football, the way the team plays and, a lot of times, the teammates – you don't have so many [short-passing] combinations. If I play in the position I did for 20 years, I can't interfere as much in the game. When I get involved, I help my teammates to become better. It's been like that my whole career – at Bahia, Sevilla, Barcelona, Juventus and PSG. Those clubs have a history of having done that for a while. Here, the coach changes all the time and you're always trying to adapt to the coach you have. In my position in the middle I'm better for my teammates. I'll be sincere, I created a new way of playing as a full-back. No false modesty. I am always adapting to my teammates. If they're wide, I'll go into the middle. If they're attacking, I'll help with the control. If the ball's on the other side, I tuck in. I play as a creative midfielder from the back. Barcelona gave me this understanding. When I played with Xavi or Rakiti[ć], there was always a player controlling the game. If I was wide, Xavi or Rakiti[ć] were behind me. Seeing them play, I thought: 'When you have a winger who stays wide, you need to stay in the area of control.' At São Paulo, my challenge is to be able to understand my teammates and to combine with them as well as possible.[104]

Personal life

[edit]

Alves is a black Brazilian.[106] He was subjected to racist taunts while playing in Spain.[107]

On 29 September 2011, Alves was appointed as a Special Olympics Ambassador for its Global Football program, charged with promoting respect and inclusion in football for people with intellectual disabilities, particularly in the run up to the 2014 World Cup.[108] On 24 April 2015, Alves publicly expressed his support for the campaign for international recognition of the Armenian genocide. The Embassy of Armenia in Spain would thank Alves the same day, with a comment on its official Facebook account.[109][110] Alves would apologize to his Turkish fans 3 days later on 27 April 2015, stating: “I’d like to offer my most sincere apologies to all my Turkish fans. I never thought that this photo would cause you any offence, I have a lot of friends …” on his Twitter account.[111] Along with his ex-teammate turned rapper, José Manuel Pinto, Alves released a song called "Suave" on YouTube on 15 June 2018.[112]

In September 2021, Alves indicated he was a supporter of Jair Bolsonaro after posting slogans in favor of the Brazilian president.[113] That same year, Alves was appointed as an Earthshot Prize council member, an environmental initiative led by Prince William, Duke of Cambridge.[114] In addition to his native Portuguese, Alves also speaks English and Spanish.[115][116]

After Alves was arrested on sexual assault charges, his wife Joana Sanz separated from him in March 2023; she publicly stated that he had caused great emotional hurt to her, and that she wanted to "close this chapter of her life".[117][118]

Sexual assault charges, conviction and acquittal

[edit]

On 20 January 2023, Alves was arrested by Catalan police and remanded in custody without bail on charges of sexual assault.[119][120][121] The alleged assault occurred at a Barcelona nightclub on 30 December 2022.[122][123] The complainant had filed an official complaint on 2 January 2023.[124][125] El Periódico de Catalunya reported that the complainant alleged to police and in court that after a waiter led her to meet Alves at the nightclub's VIP area, Alves twice made her touch his penis against her will, then ordered her to follow him into the nightclub's bathroom, prevented her from leaving the bathroom, threw her onto the ground, slapped her, tried to force her to fellate him, put her against the sink, then moved her to the toilet, raped her and ejaculated.[126][127] According to El Periódico, semen that matched Alves' DNA was collected from samples from inside the complainant's vagina, from her underwear, from her dress, and from the bathroom floor; the complainant was documented by a hospital to have suffered a knee injury consistent with her allegations; and investigators found seven fingerprints around the bathroom that matched the complainant's account of events, with the complainant giving her account without knowing that investigators had such evidence.[127][128]

Alves has given at least five different accounts of the incident.[129] El Periódico detailed three versions.[127] In the first version, Alves told media outlet Antena 3 that he did not know the woman, and accused her of trying to become famous by making her allegation.[127] He implied that he entered the bathroom not knowing that she was already inside using it, but this was contradicted by surveillance footage.[127] After understanding that evidence had been collected against him and the above account was part of the evidence, Alves changed his story in court.[127] In the second version, Alves admitted that he had entered the bathroom first before the woman, and that inside the bathroom, he had defecated in the toilet with the woman beside him, and nothing sexual occurred.[127] When Alves was questioned on why the woman would remain in the small bathroom with him for 15 minutes doing nothing, or why his semen had been found on the bathroom floor, Alves changed his story again.[127] In the third version, he said that the woman had performed fellatio on him in the bathroom.[127] On 17 April 2023, Alves testified in court to a different version of events, claiming that he had consensual sexual intercourse with the woman during the incident; Alves also said that he earlier denied the sexual activity because he wanted to save his marriage.[117][130] By February 2023, at least eight witnesses provided testimony, and it was reported that the crime could receive prosecution through Spain's recently passed 2022 consensual sex law which expanded the legal definition of sexual assault in Spain.[131] In his fifth version, which was detailed by El Periódico on 17 January 2024, Alves claimed he was severely impaired by alcohol consumption.[132]

El Periódico reported in July 2023 that Alves' trial in Spain was originally scheduled to take place between October and November 2023, and no pretrial release should be granted to him until his trial finishes.[133] However, when he was formally indicted on 2 August 2023, it was determined that a trial date would be set for later in the year or early in 2024.[134] He had previously been denied bail in May 2023 and was still in prison by February 2024.[135][136] On 20 December 2023, a Barcelona-based court scheduled for his trial to begin on 5 February 2024.[137][138] His trial would then begin on the scheduled date, and it lasted for three days.[135] The trial was also regarded as the first high-profile trial to be held under Spain's 2022 sex crime law.[139]

During the first day of his trial, the presiding Provincial Court of Barcelona rejected Alves' bid to have the trial suspended.[135] The woman who accused Alves of sexually assaulting her provided testimony via a closed-door session, talking from behind a screen and having her voice distorted in order to protect her identity.[135] During the second day of the trial, Alves' wife Joana Sanz was among the witnesses who testified.[140] Catalan News described Sanz as appearing "very cold towards her husband" during the testimony.[140] Friends of Alves who testified claimed they drank alcohol "from lunch until dawn," with Sanz even claiming that Alves appeared "reeking of alcohol" after arriving home.[140] The first two days of the trial saw testimony from the alleged victim, witness, police and experts.[141] The third and final day of the trial saw, among others, Alves himself give testimony, where he again denied raping the accuser and claimed that the encounter between him and his accuser was consensual.[142][141]

On 22 February 2024, Alves was found guilty of rape, and was sentenced to four and a half years in prison and ordered to pay €150,000 in damages to the victim.[143][144] Alves' lawyer said that she would appeal against the verdict.[145] After the sentence, Barcelona retired him from the "Legend" section.[146] However, the club would reinstate his likeness on the website days later.[147]

On 20 March 2024, Alves was released from jail on a €1,000,000 bail.[148] However, he was ordered to turn his Spanish and Brazilian passports over to the police, effectively prohibiting him from leaving Spain; to appear before a court weekly; and to keep distance from the victim. The ruling which was not unanimous can still be appealed. The victim's lawyer reacted saying "to me, it's a scandal that they let a person who they know can get a million euros in no time walk free."[149]

On 28 March 2025, this conviction was overturned by the Spanish court, due to the lack of reliability of the accuser's testimony and inconsistencies in the previous sentence.[150][151]

On May 7, 2025, the Spanish prosecutor's office appealed to the Supreme Court the annulment of the rape conviction of Dani Alves. The prosecution considers that the decision is based on “erroneous”, “even arbitrary” conclusions and that it “morally condemned” the complainant.[152]

Tax fraud case

[edit]

On 16 November 2023, Alves won a tax fraud case against him which was related to alleged improper reporting to Spain tax authorities concerning his image rights earnings during the 2009–10 and 2010–11 seasons while he was a Barcelona player after appealing to a Spanish high court.[153] He also received a €3.2 million ($3.4 million) payout from money that was confiscated from him.[153]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of match played 8 January 2023[154][155][156]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League National cup[a] League cup[b] Continental Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Bahia 2001 Série A 6 0 0 0 — — — 6 0
2002 Série A 19 2 6 2 — — 6[c] 1 31 5
Total 25 2 6 2 — — 6 1 37 5
Sevilla 2002–03 La Liga 10 0 1 0 — — — 11 0
2003–04 La Liga 29 1 7 1 — — — 36 2
2004–05 La Liga 33 2 5 0 — 9[d] 0 — 47 2
2005–06 La Liga 36 3 2 0 — 14[d] 0 — 52 3
2006–07 La Liga 34 3 8 0 — 14[d] 2 1[e] 0 57 5
2007–08 La Liga 33 2 3 0 — 8[f] 2 3[g] 0 47 4
Total 175 11 26 1 — 45 4 4 0 250 16
Barcelona 2008–09 La Liga 34 5 8 0 — 12[f] 0 — 54 5
2009–10 La Liga 29 3 3 0 — 11[f] 0 5[h] 0 48 3
2010–11 La Liga 35 2 5 0 — 12[f] 2 2[i] 0 54 4
2011–12 La Liga 33 2 5 1 — 10[f] 0 4[j] 0 52 3
2012–13 La Liga 30 0 6 0 — 10[f] 1 1[i] 0 47 1
2013–14 La Liga 27 2 5 0 — 8[f] 2 2[i] 0 42 4
2014–15 La Liga 30 0 5 0 — 11[f] 0 — 46 0
2015–16 La Liga 29 0 6 1 — 8[f] 0 5[k] 0 48 1
Total 247 14 43 2 — 82 5 19 0 391 21
Juventus 2016–17 Serie A 19 2 2 1 — 12[f] 3 0 0 33 6
Paris Saint-Germain 2017–18 Ligue 1 25 1 4 0 3 1 8[f] 2 1[l] 1 41 5
2018–19 Ligue 1 23 1 4 2 2 0 3[f] 0 0 0 32 3
Total 48 2 8 2 5 1 11 2 1 1 73 8
São Paulo 2019 Série A 20 2 — — — — 20 2
2020 Série A 30 1 6 0 — 6[m] 2 11[n] 4 53 7
2021 Série A 6 0 1 0 — 6[o] 0 9[n] 1 22 1
Total 56 3 7 0 — 12 2 20 5 95 10
Barcelona 2021–22 La Liga 14 1 2 0 — 0 0 1[i] 0 17 1
UNAM 2022–23 Liga MX 13 0 — — — — 13 0
Career total 597 35 94 8 5 1 162 15 51 7 909 67

Notes:

  1. ^ Includes Copa do Brasil, Copa del Rey, Coppa Italia and Coupe de France
  2. ^ Includes Coupe de la Ligue
  3. ^ One appearance in Copa dos Campeões, five appearances and one goal in Copa do Nordeste
  4. ^ a b c Appearance(s) in UEFA Cup
  5. ^ Appearance in UEFA Super Cup
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l Appearance(s) in UEFA Champions League
  7. ^ One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in Supercopa de España
  8. ^ One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in Supercopa de España, two appearances in FIFA Club World Cup
  9. ^ a b c d Appearance(s) in Supercopa de España
  10. ^ One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in Supercopa de España, one appearance in FIFA Club World Cup
  11. ^ One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in Supercopa de España, two appearances in FIFA Club World Cup
  12. ^ Appearance in Trophée des Champions
  13. ^ Four appearances and one goal in Copa Libertadores, two appearances and one goal and Copa Sudamericana
  14. ^ a b Appearance(s) in Campeonato Paulista
  15. ^ Appearance(s) in Copa Libertadores

International

[edit]
As of match played 5 December 2022[157][158]
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team Year Apps Goals
Brazil 2006 1 0
2007 12 1
2008 5 0
2009 14 2
2010 12 2
2011 10 0
2012 5 0
2013 13 0
2014 7 1
2015 8 0
2016 12 1
2017 6 0
2018 2 0
2019 11 1
2020 0 0
2021 1 0
2022 7 0
Total 126 8
Scores and results list Brazil's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Alves goal.[158]
List of international goals scored by Dani Alves
No. Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition Ref.
1 15 July 2007 Estadio José Pachencho Romero, Maracaibo, Venezuela  Argentina 3–0 3–0 2007 Copa América Final
2 6 June 2009 Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, Uruguay  Uruguay 1–0 4–0 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification
3 25 June 2009 Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa  South Africa 1–0 1–0 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup
4 7 October 2010 Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates  Iran 1–0 3–0 Friendly
5 11 October 2010 Pride Park Stadium, Derby, England  Ukraine 1–0 2–0 Friendly
6 3 June 2014 Estádio Serra Dourada, Goiás, Brazil  Panama 2–0 4–0 Friendly
7 29 March 2016 Estadio Defensores del Chaco, Asunción, Paraguay  Paraguay 2–2 2–2 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
8 22 June 2019 Arena Corinthians, São Paulo, Brazil  Peru 4–0 5–0 2019 Copa América

Honours

[edit]

Bahia[159]

Sevilla[154]

Alves after winning the 2015 UEFA Super Cup

Barcelona[154][160]

Juventus[154]

Paris Saint-Germain[154]

São Paulo[154]

Brazil U20[154]

Brazil Olympic[154]

Brazil[154]

Individual

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Dani Alves

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Daniel Alves da Silva (born 6 May 1983) is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played primarily as a right-back.[1] Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in the sport's history, he holds the record for the most major trophies won by any player, totaling 43 across club and international competitions.[2] His career spanned clubs including Sevilla, where he secured two UEFA Cups, Barcelona, with whom he claimed six La Liga titles and three UEFA Champions Leagues, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, São Paulo, and briefly Pumas UNAM.[3] For Brazil, Alves captained the side to Olympic gold at the 2020 Tokyo Games—the oldest player to win the men's football event—and triumphed in two Copa América tournaments.[4] Alves' playing style emphasized attacking contributions from defense, with over 400 appearances for Barcelona alone, where he formed a pivotal partnership in the right flank of the team's tiki-taka system.[5] His trophy haul includes domestic leagues in Spain, Italy, and France, multiple supercups, and international honors like the FIFA Confederations Cup.[3] Despite participating in three FIFA World Cups, Brazil did not secure the title during his tenure, exiting in the quarter-finals or earlier stages.[4] In December 2022, Alves faced charges of sexual assault stemming from an incident in a Barcelona nightclub, leading to his arrest in January 2023 and an initial conviction in February 2024 to four and a half years imprisonment under Spain's consent-based sexual liberty law.[6] He was granted bail in March 2024 pending appeal.[7] In March 2025, Catalonia's High Court overturned the conviction, citing evidentiary flaws and inconsistencies in the accuser's account, acquitting him unanimously; however, public prosecutors appealed the acquittal in May 2025, with the final resolution pending as of October 2025.[8][9] This case highlighted tensions in applying Spain's 2022 "only yes means yes" legislation, which shifted emphasis from violence to lack of consent but faced criticism for potential overreach in initial prosecutions.[10]

Early Life and Background

Childhood in Juazeiro

Daniel Alves da Silva was born on 6 May 1983 in Juazeiro, a municipality in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia known for its agricultural economy and rural communities.[11][12] The youngest of five children in a impoverished farming family, Alves grew up in the countryside under modest circumstances, where his father, Domingos Alves da Silva, sustained the household through manual labor on the land.[13][14][15] His mother supported the family amid these hardships, though specific details on her role remain limited in available accounts.[15] Daily life involved early mornings and physical toil; by age ten, Alves rose at 5 a.m. alongside his brother to aid their father in farm duties before school or play.[16] In this environment of economic constraint, football emerged as a vital escape and social activity for rural families, with children improvising games using makeshift goals amid the fields.[13] Alves first kicked a ball with neighborhood peers, honing basic skills in informal settings that reflected the passion for the sport prevalent in Bahia's interior.[14] These early experiences laid the groundwork for his involvement in local youth setups, including the Juazeiro Social Club, where structured play began to channel his talent away from familial obligations.[17]

Entry into Professional Football

Alves progressed from local youth football in Juazeiro to join the youth academy of Esporte Clube Bahia in 1998, following his time with Juazeiro SC from 1996 to 1998.[18] There, he developed as a right-back, honing skills that would define his versatile defensive and attacking playstyle, before earning promotion to the senior squad.[19] He signed his first professional contract with Bahia in 2001 and made his senior debut on August 4, 2001, in a Campeonato Brasileiro Série A fixture against Sociedade Esportiva Paraná Clube.[20] Bahia won the match 3–0, marking Alves' entry into competitive professional play at age 18.[11] This debut season aligned with Bahia's success in domestic competitions, including the Campeonato Baiano, providing Alves early exposure at the top level of Brazilian football.[21]

Club Career

Bahia and Early Professional Debut

Dani Alves joined the youth academy of Esporte Clube Bahia, a club based in Salvador, Bahia, after starting football in his hometown of Juazeiro.[19] He progressed through the ranks and signed his first professional contract with the club in 2001 at age 18.[2] Alves made his professional debut for Bahia on May 19, 2001, in a Campeonato Brasileiro Série A match against Paraná Clube at the Fonte Nova stadium, which Bahia won 3–0; he provided assists for two of the goals as a right-back.[20] During the 2001 Série A season, he appeared in 6 matches without scoring, contributing to Bahia's mid-table finish in 21st place out of 28 teams.[22] In the following year, 2002, amid Bahia's relegation to Série B, Alves featured more prominently across competitions, accumulating 37 appearances and 5 goals overall for the club between 2001 and 2002.[23] His performances at Bahia, including defensive solidity and attacking contributions from the flank, drew attention from European scouts, leading to a transfer to Sevilla FC in Spain in July 2002 for a fee of approximately €150,000.[17] Bahia received 50% of future transfer fees due to the deal structure, reflecting the club's financial constraints at the time.[1] This early stint established Alves as a versatile full-back with pace and crossing ability, though the club did not win major honors during his tenure.[14]

Sevilla and Rise in Europe

Dani Alves arrived at Sevilla FC on loan from Bahia in 2002, making his La Liga debut on 6 October 2002 in a 1–0 win against Barcelona.[1] The loan deal transitioned to a permanent transfer effective 1 January 2003.[24] Over six seasons, he appeared in 237 matches across all competitions, scoring 15 goals, establishing himself as a dynamic right-back known for his attacking contributions and defensive solidity.[25] Sevilla's European breakthrough came in the 2005–06 UEFA Cup, where Alves featured in nine matches, including the final on 10 May 2006 against Middlesbrough, which Sevilla won 4–0 at Philips Stadion in Eindhoven. This victory marked Sevilla's first major European trophy since 1961 and propelled Alves into prominence. Following this success, Sevilla defeated Barcelona 3–0 in the 2006 UEFA Super Cup on 25 August at Monaco's Stade Louis II, with Alves starting and contributing to the clean sheet. Alves was awarded the inaugural UEFA Cup Most Valuable Player honor for his performances that season.[26] The 2006–07 campaign saw Sevilla defend their UEFA Cup title, defeating Espanyol 2–2 (3–1 on penalties) in the final on 16 May 2007 at Hampden Park, Glasgow, with Alves playing the full match.[27] Domestically, Sevilla secured the Copa del Rey on 19 May 2007, beating Getafe 1–0 in the final at Santiago Bernabéu, where Alves started.[22] These triumphs qualified Sevilla for the 2007–08 UEFA Champions League, where Alves made his debut in the competition, appearing in six group stage matches before a round-of-16 exit to Fenerbahçe.[3] Alves' tenure at Sevilla transformed him from a promising South American talent into one of Europe's elite full-backs, attracting interest from top clubs; he departed for Barcelona on 2 July 2008 in a €35.5 million transfer, then a record for a defender.[18] His contributions included 11 La Liga goals across 175 appearances, underscoring his offensive threat from defense.[28]

Barcelona Dominance

Dani Alves transferred to FC Barcelona from Sevilla on 2 July 2008 for a fee reported as €35 million, marking the highest transfer amount for a defender originating from outside Europe's premier leagues at the time.[29] Over his initial eight-year tenure until 2016, he established himself as the club's primary right-back, integral to the high-possession, tiki-taka style that defined Barcelona's era of supremacy under Pep Guardiola from 2008 to 2012 and subsequent managers.[30] Alves featured in 391 competitive matches, scoring 21 goals and delivering key assists through his aggressive overlapping runs, which synergized with Lionel Messi's tendency to drift centrally from the right wing, enhancing Barcelona's attacking fluidity.[22] His defensive solidity combined with offensive contributions—averaging around 30 La Liga appearances per season and ranking among the team's top assist providers from the backline—underpinned a trophy haul of 23 major honors, solidifying Barcelona's dominance in Spain and Europe.[31] These included six La Liga titles (2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16), three UEFA Champions Leagues (2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15), four Copa del Rey trophies (2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2015–16), three UEFA Super Cups, three FIFA Club World Cups, and four Spanish Super Cups.[32] Barcelona achieved the treble (La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Champions League) twice during his time, in 2009 and 2015, with Alves starting in key fixtures and contributing to the possession metrics that overwhelmed opponents.[33] Alves redefined the full-back role at Barcelona by prioritizing width and crossing volume, often advancing into midfield to maintain numerical superiority in attack while relying on midfield cover for defensive transitions.[34] His technical proficiency, pace, and set-piece delivery yielded consistent goal involvements, with records including high assist tallies for a defender in La Liga matches.[30] This approach not only amplified the effectiveness of forwards like Messi and Neymar but also exemplified causal links between tactical innovation and Barcelona's sustained superiority, as evidenced by their 73% win rate in league games featuring Alves as a starter.[35]
CompetitionTitles WonSeasons
La Liga62008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16[32]
UEFA Champions League32008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15[32]
Copa del Rey42008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2015–16[33]
UEFA Super Cup32009, 2011, 2015[3]
FIFA Club World Cup32009, 2011, 2015[3]
Supercopa de España42009, 2010, 2011, 2013[32]

Key Achievements and Records

Dani Alves amassed 23 major trophies during his initial tenure with FC Barcelona from 2008 to 2016, establishing himself as a cornerstone of the club's golden era under managers Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique.[33] This haul included two domestic trebles in 2009 and 2015, making Barcelona the first club to achieve this feat twice.[3] His contributions extended beyond defense, with 22 goals and 105 assists in 408 appearances, including 43 assists for Lionel Messi's goals alone.[36][33] Key titles won:
  • La Liga: 6 (2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16)
  • Copa del Rey: 4 (2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2015–16)
  • Supercopa de España: 4 (2009, 2010, 2011, 2013)
  • UEFA Champions League: 3 (2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15)
  • UEFA Super Cup: 3 (2009, 2011, 2015)
  • FIFA Club World Cup: 3 (2009, 2011, 2015)
Alves maintained a remarkable trophy acquisition rate of 2.8 per season, averaging one every 17 games, while featuring in an average of 48 matches across all competitions annually.[33] Under Guardiola, he recorded 15 goals and 68 assists in 208 outings, contributing a goal involvement every 214 minutes.[33] His 391 competitive appearances rank him 13th in Barcelona's all-time list, with Lionel Messi as the only foreign player ahead.[33] These accomplishments underscore his pivotal role in Barcelona's tiki-taka system, blending defensive solidity with offensive flair from the right-back position.[3]

Banana Incidents and Racial Controversies

During a La Liga match on April 27, 2014, between FC Barcelona and Villarreal CF, which Barcelona won 3–2, a spectator threw a banana towards Dani Alves as he prepared to take a corner kick, an act widely interpreted as a racist gesture invoking longstanding stereotypes associating Black people with monkeys.[37] [38] Alves responded by picking up the banana, peeling it, and eating a piece before proceeding with the set piece, later stating that such acts of racism could be combated effectively through humor rather than outrage.[39] [38] The incident prompted immediate backlash and a viral social media campaign, with Alves' Barcelona teammate Neymar posting a photo of himself eating a banana alongside the hashtag #somostodosmacacos ("we are all monkeys"), encouraging fans worldwide to share similar images in solidarity against racism in football.[37] [38] FC Barcelona issued a formal condemnation of the abuse, while Villarreal CF identified the perpetrator through stadium surveillance footage, issuing a lifetime ban from their matches and cooperating with authorities.[40] [39] Spanish police arrested a suspect on April 30, 2014, charging them with a hate crime, though the case highlighted persistent challenges in addressing racial abuse in Spanish stadiums, where such incidents had drawn fines from the Spanish Football Federation but limited long-term deterrence.[37] [41] Alves, who had encountered racist abuse including monkey chants during his earlier tenure at Sevilla FC, used the episode to critique Spain's handling of racism, describing the country as "very backward" on the issue in a Guardian interview and noting that such behavior undermined football's global image.[41] No additional verified banana-throwing incidents directly targeting Alves were documented in major reports from his career, though he later recounted experiencing racism, including discriminatory treatment, during his 2017–2019 stint at Paris Saint-Germain, where he felt fans and others in the city harbored prejudices against Black players.[42] These events underscored Alves' repeated exposure to racial hostility in European football, contrasting with his on-field response emphasizing resilience over disruption.[38]

Juventus Stint

Dani Alves joined Juventus on a free transfer from Barcelona on 27 June 2016, signing a two-year contract until 30 June 2018 with an option for an additional year.[43][44] The move followed the expiration of his Barcelona contract, allowing him to depart without a transfer fee despite interest from clubs like Manchester City.[45] Alves made his Juventus debut on 20 August 2016 in a 2–1 Serie A victory over Fiorentina, starting as right-back and contributing to the team's early season form.[22] In his sole season with the club, he featured in 33 matches across all competitions, scoring 6 goals and providing 7 assists.[46] His contributions included 19 Serie A appearances with 2 goals and 3 assists, 12 UEFA Champions League outings with 3 goals and 4 assists, and 2 Coppa Italia games with 1 goal.[46] A notable performance came in the Champions League semi-final second leg on 9 May 2017 against Monaco, where Alves scored once and assisted Mario Mandžukić's goal in a 2–1 win, helping Juventus advance to the final despite an overall 4–1 aggregate loss to Real Madrid on 3 June 2017.[46] Juventus secured the 2016–17 Serie A title and the 2016–17 Coppa Italia during Alves' tenure, defeating Lazio 2–0 in the Coppa final on 17 May 2017.[46] However, his season was interrupted by a broken fibula sustained on 7 December 2016, sidelining him for several months.[46] On 29 June 2017, Juventus and Alves mutually terminated his contract a year early, enabling his move to Paris Saint-Germain.[47] The departure followed Juventus' double domestic success but came amid the club's Champions League final defeat.[46]

Paris Saint-Germain Period

Dani Alves joined Paris Saint-Germain on 11 July 2017 as a free agent from Juventus, signing a two-year contract.[48] He made his competitive debut on 29 July 2017 in the Trophée des Champions against Monaco, scoring the winning goal in a 2–1 victory, marking PSG's fifth title in the competition.[49] [50] In his first Ligue 1 appearance on 5 August 2017, Alves provided an assist for Edinson Cavani's opener in a 2–0 win over Amiens. During the 2017–18 season, Alves contributed to PSG's domestic treble, securing the Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, and Trophée des Champions.[51] Notable moments included playing as an emergency goalkeeper for the final minutes of a Coupe de France match against Sochaux on 7 February 2018 after the regular keeper's dismissal, helping secure a 1–0 win. However, on 8 May 2018, he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the Coupe de France final against Les Herbiers, an injury that ruled him out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup for Brazil.[52] [53] In the 2018–19 season, Alves featured less frequently due to recovery but still aided PSG in retaining the Ligue 1 title and winning another Trophée des Champions.[51] Over his tenure, he made 48 Ligue 1 appearances with 2 goals and 14 assists, alongside 11 UEFA Champions League matches yielding 2 goals.[54] [55] Alves departed PSG on 23 June 2019, announcing the end of his cycle at the club before transferring to São Paulo.[56]

Return to Brazil with São Paulo

In August 2019, following his standout performance as player of the tournament at the Copa América, where Brazil secured the title, Dani Alves signed a free transfer to join São Paulo FC, his boyhood club, on a contract running until December 2022.[57][58] The move marked his return to Brazilian football after 17 years in Europe, with Alves expressing a preference for São Paulo over other global options due to personal ties.[59] Alves assumed the number 10 shirt and a leadership role, contributing to the team's defensive stability and attacking transitions during the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Over his tenure, he made 95 appearances across all competitions, scoring 9 goals and providing 14 assists, while adapting to central midfield duties at times amid injuries and tactical needs.[60] São Paulo's financial difficulties, including delayed wage payments, strained relations, culminating in the club's 2021 Campeonato Paulista victory—their first since 2005—which elevated Alves to the record holder for most professional trophies with 41 at the time.[3][61] By September 2021, unpaid salaries led Alves to withhold services and refuse to play, prompting São Paulo to terminate his contract early despite its extension to 2022; the club cited his training strike as the final factor in the mutual parting.[62][63]

Barcelona Reunion and Late Career

On 12 November 2021, FC Barcelona announced an agreement in principle to re-sign Dani Alves until the end of the 2021–22 season, marking his return to the club five years after departing for Juventus.[64][65] The 38-year-old Brazilian agreed to a nominal salary of €1 per week to navigate the club's financial constraints under La Liga's salary cap rules.[66] This move, the first under new head coach Xavi Hernández, aimed to inject experience and leadership into a squad struggling in La Liga and recently eliminated from the Champions League.[67] Alves made his second debut for Barcelona on 5 January 2022, starting and playing 90 minutes in a Copa del Rey last-32 tie against Linares Deportivo, which ended 1–1 before Barcelona advanced on penalties.[68] Over the season, he appeared in 14 La Liga matches (13 starts), accumulating 1,098 minutes, scoring 1 goal, and contributing to the team's defensive efforts amid broader squad transitions.[69] His versatility allowed deployment as a right-back and occasional midfielder, providing tactical stability during a campaign where Barcelona finished second in La Liga but exited early from European competition.[70] Alves played a role in Barcelona's Copa del Rey triumph, starting in key knockout matches including the round of 16 against Athletic Bilbao, where he assisted an equalizer via a bicycle kick in extra time.[71] The team won the title on 1 May 2022, defeating Athletic Bilbao 4–1 on penalties after a 0–0 final draw, securing Alves' 43rd career trophy.[5] Despite this success, Barcelona informed him on 15 June 2022 that his contract would not be renewed, ending his second stint after 17 total appearances and confirming his departure via Instagram.[72] This brief return underscored Alves' enduring influence but highlighted the club's shift toward younger profiles amid ongoing financial recovery.[73]

UNAM Pumas and Contract Termination

On 23 July 2022, Dani Alves signed a one-year contract with Pumas UNAM of Mexico's Liga MX, including an option for a further year, marking his first move outside Europe and Brazil since his early career.[74] [75] The 39-year-old defender aimed to maintain match fitness ahead of Brazil's 2022 FIFA World Cup squad selection.[76] Alves featured in 13 matches during the Apertura 2022 tournament, primarily as a right-back, logging significant minutes in defensive roles without registering goals or assists.[77] His experience bolstered Pumas' backline in a season where the club finished mid-table, though his integration was limited by the short tenure and ongoing international commitments. The arrangement ended abruptly on 20 January 2023, when Pumas unilaterally terminated Alves' contract following his arrest in Barcelona on 20 January for an alleged sexual assault occurring on 30 December 2022 at a nightclub.[78] [79] [80] The club cited his detention without bail, which prevented his return to Mexico, alongside contractual clauses (14 and 15) allowing rescission for involvement in public scandals, legal proceedings, or conduct damaging the institution's image or sporting performance.[81] [82] Alves disputed the termination as unjustified and without just cause, filing a claim with FIFA's Dispute Resolution Chamber, which in May 2023 initially ruled against Pumas, awarding him compensation for breach of contract.[83] Pumas appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which on 17 September 2025 overturned the FIFA decision, validating the club's actions under the contract terms and ordering Alves to pay approximately $2.2 million in compensation for the unilateral breach induced by his circumstances.[84] [85] This resolution concluded the dispute, with CAS emphasizing the enforceability of the image-protection provisions despite Alves' subsequent acquittal in the Spanish proceedings in March 2025.[86]

International Career with Brazil

Youth and Early Senior Appearances

Alves represented Brazil at the youth international level, notably as part of the under-20 team that won the 2003 FIFA U-20 World Cup held in the United Arab Emirates, defeating Spain 1–0 in the final on 19 December 2003.[3] During the tournament, he contributed as a right-back, helping secure Brazil's first U-20 title since 1983 with a squad featuring future stars like Adriano and Carlos Tevez as opponents.[87] He earned his first senior call-up to the Brazil national team in 2006 while playing for Sevilla, making his unofficial debut on 7 October 2006 in a match against opponents not specified in primary records.[88] Three days later, on 10 October 2006, Alves made his official senior debut in a friendly against Ecuador, entering as a substitute in a 2–1 victory that showcased his emerging defensive reliability.[88] These early appearances marked the beginning of his integration into the senior squad under coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, ahead of his participation in the 2007 Copa América.[20]

Major Tournament Wins: 2007 Copa América to 2011

Dani Alves earned his first major international honor with Brazil at the 2007 Copa América, hosted in Venezuela from June 26 to July 15. Selected for the squad under coach Dunga, Alves featured in four matches, providing defensive stability on the right flank while contributing offensively.[4] Brazil advanced through the group stage unbeaten, defeating Ecuador 1–0 on July 1, Mexico 0–0 on July 4 (advancing on goal difference), and Chile 4–0 on July 7, before eliminating Peru 4–0 in the quarter-finals on July 11 and Uruguay 2–1 in the semi-finals on July 14. In the final against Argentina at Puerto Ordaz on July 15, Brazil secured a 3–0 victory with goals from Júlio Baptista in the 8th minute, an own goal by Roberto Ayala in the 24th, and Alves' strike in the 61st, marking his first international goal and helping Brazil claim their eighth Copa América title.[4] Alves' versatility allowed Brazil to maintain possession dominance, with his overlapping runs and crosses supporting forwards like Robinho and Kaká, though his primary impact came in the decisive final goal that sealed the win against a possession-heavy Argentine side led by Lionel Messi. This triumph solidified Alves' role in the national team setup, transitioning from his earlier substitute appearances to a starting position in key fixtures. Brazil's defensive record, conceding just two goals across the tournament, underscored the backline's effectiveness, where Alves logged over 300 minutes of play.[4] In the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, held in South Africa from June 14 to 28 as a precursor to the 2010 World Cup, Alves played a pivotal role in Brazil's second consecutive title. Under Dunga, Brazil topped Group B with wins over Egypt 4–3 on June 18 and the United States 3–0 on June 21, followed by a 2–0 semi-final qualification over hosts South Africa on June 25. Substituting in the 74th minute against South Africa at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg, Alves scored the winner via a curling free-kick in the 88th minute, securing a 1–0 victory and advancing to the final.[89] This late intervention highlighted his set-piece proficiency and composure under pressure, breaking a resilient South African defense that had frustrated Brazil for most of the match. Brazil then defeated the United States 2–0 in the final on June 28 at Ellis Park, with goals from Lúcio and Thiago Silva, extending their unbeaten streak and claiming the trophy for the second time.[4] Alves appeared in all five matches, accumulating around 250 minutes, primarily as a right-back with occasional forays into midfield to exploit spaces. His contributions included one goal and defensive interventions that limited opponents to three goals conceded overall, reinforcing Brazil's status as world champions at the time. No further major tournament victories followed for Brazil involving Alves through 2011, as the team exited the 2010 FIFA World Cup in the quarter-finals against the Netherlands on July 2 and the 2011 Copa América in the quarter-finals against Paraguay on July 17.[4]

Mid-Career Successes: 2013 Confederations Cup and 2014 World Cup

Dani Alves served as Brazil's starting right-back throughout the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup, appearing in all five matches for a total of 450 minutes played and recording one assist.[90] The host nation, under coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, topped Group A with wins over Japan (3–0 on June 15), Mexico (2–0 on June 19), and Italy (4–2 on June 22), conceding just two goals in the process.[91] In the semifinals, Brazil defeated Uruguay 2–1 via a 5–4 penalty shootout victory on June 26, with Alves converting his spot-kick. The tournament culminated in a 3–0 final win against defending world champions Spain on June 30 at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, where Fred scored twice and Neymar added one, ending Spain's 29-match unbeaten streak.[92] Alves started and completed the full match, bolstering the defense that limited Spain to three shots on target while contributing offensively with crosses, including one to Fred late in the second half.[93] This victory, Brazil's third Confederations Cup title, showcased Alves' versatility in supporting attacks and maintaining positional discipline against possession-dominant opponents.[94] In the subsequent 2014 FIFA World Cup, also hosted by Brazil, Alves earned four caps without goals or assists, starting primarily in the group stage before yielding his spot due to subpar form.[90] Brazil advanced from Group A with a 3–1 opening victory over Croatia on June 12 (Alves started), a goalless draw against Mexico on June 17, and a 4–1 thrashing of Cameroon on June 23.[95] The team reached the semifinals, edging Chile 3–2 on penalties in the round of 16 and Colombia 2–1 in the quarterfinals, but endured a 7–1 semifinal rout by Germany on July 8.[96] Brazil claimed third place with a 3–0 win over the Netherlands on July 12, marking Alves' involvement in a tournament that yielded a bronze medal despite the humiliating semifinal defeat.[97]

Later Tournaments: 2015–2019 Copa Américas and 2018 Qualifying

Dani Alves received a late call-up to Brazil's squad for the 2015 Copa América on 11 June 2015, replacing the injured Danilo.[98] He started all four matches, logging 390 minutes as Brazil advanced from Group C with wins over Peru (2–1 on 14 June) and Venezuela (2–0 on 21 June), following a 0–1 loss to Colombia.[99] In the quarter-finals against Paraguay on 27 June, Brazil drew 1–1 before losing 4–3 on penalties in Concepción, with Alves converting his spot-kick.[100] Alves also started in all three of Brazil's group stage fixtures at the 2016 Copa América Centenario, held in the United States, where the team managed draws against Ecuador (0–0) and Peru (0–0) but fell 1–0 to Colombia, resulting in an early exit without advancing. His experience provided defensive stability on the right flank amid Brazil's struggles to score, as the Seleção netted zero goals in the tournament. During the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in CONMEBOL, Alves featured in multiple matches under coaches Dunga and Tite, contributing to Brazil's dominant run that secured first place with 41 points from 18 games.[101] By the campaign's conclusion in October 2017, he had amassed 103 caps for Brazil overall.[102] Alves returned as Brazil's captain for the 2019 Copa América, stepping in for the absent Neymar, and started every one of the six matches.[103] He scored once in the final group stage game, a 5–0 victory over Peru on 22 June in São Paulo, helping equal Pelé's record of 113 international appearances.[104] Brazil progressed through the knockout stages, defeating Paraguay 2–0 in the semi-finals before clinching the title with a 3–1 win over Peru in the final on 7 July at the Maracanã, marking Alves' second Copa América triumph and his 40th career trophy.[105] He was named the tournament's best player for his leadership and consistent performances.[103]

2020 Olympics and 2022 World Cup

Dani Alves was named to Brazil's squad for the 2020 Summer Olympics men's football tournament, held in Tokyo from July 21 to August 8, 2021, as one of three over-age players permitted under FIFA rules for the U-23 competition.[106] At 38 years old, he served as captain, providing leadership and experience to a team featuring stars like Neymar.[107] Brazil defended their 2016 gold medal, advancing through the group stage and knockout rounds, including a semifinal penalty shootout win over Mexico.[108] In the final on August 7, 2021, Brazil defeated Spain 2–1 in extra time, with Matheus Cunha scoring first and Malcom netting the winner in the 108th minute after Mikel Oyarzabal's equalizer; this victory secured Alves' 43rd career trophy.[109][110] Despite limited club action following his release from Barcelona in late 2021 and a brief stint at Pumas UNAM, Alves earned a surprise call-up to Brazil's 2022 FIFA World Cup squad announced on November 7, 2022, becoming the oldest player in the team's history at 39.[111] He made his first appearance as a starter in the final Group G match against Cameroon on December 2, 2022, a 1–0 win via Vincent Aboubakar's late own goal dismissal, during which Alves, at 39 years and 210 days, set the record as Brazil's oldest World Cup participant.[112] Alves then substituted in the round-of-16 clash against South Korea on December 5, 2022, contributing to a 4–1 victory that marked his 127th international cap, for a total of two appearances and 117 minutes played.[4][113] Brazil topped their group with three wins before eliminating South Korea, but exited in the quarterfinals after a 1–1 draw and penalty shootout loss to Croatia on December 9, 2022, with Alves unused on the bench.[114]

Playing Style and Technical Attributes

Defensive Strengths and Versatility

Dani Alves, primarily deployed as a right-back, exhibited defensive strengths rooted in his exceptional athleticism, including pace and stamina, which enabled effective recovery after forward forays and high positioning to press opponents.[115] His work rate allowed him to contribute to defensive transitions, often covering wide areas and supporting central defenders during counters.[116] Career statistics reflect competence in core defensive actions, with an average of 1.2 tackles per game and 1.5 interceptions per game across stints at major clubs like Barcelona and Juventus.[32] These metrics, while not elite among pure defenders, were bolstered by a 75% tackle success rate in compiled career data, demonstrating reliability in one-on-one duels when engaged.[117] Critics have noted occasional lapses in positional discipline due to his attacking inclinations, leading to perceptions of defensive vulnerability, particularly in high-stakes matches where exploitation of space behind him occurred.[116] However, Alves mitigated such risks through intelligent reading of the game and team-oriented pressing systems, as evidenced in Sevilla's structured defense under Juande Ramos, where full-backs adhered to strict halfway-line limits early in his tenure.[118] His ability to "defend like a wall" when required stemmed from disciplined intensity, combining physicality with tactical awareness to neutralize wing threats.[119] Alves's versatility distinguished him as one of the most adaptable players in modern football, comfortably shifting across defensive and midfield roles. He predominantly operated as a right-back but frequently covered left-back, central midfield, and right midfield positions, logging appearances in each during club and international campaigns.[25] At Paris Saint-Germain, he became the first player to feature in every pitch position—from goalkeeper to forward—in competitive matches, showcasing his footballing intelligence and technical proficiency.[120] This positional fluidity, often dictated by managerial tactics like Pep Guardiola's at Barcelona, allowed him to provide defensive cover in multiple zones, enhancing team balance without compromising his primary flank duties.[121]

Attacking Contributions and Set-Piece Expertise

Alves distinguished himself as a right-back through exceptional attacking output, frequently advancing into midfield and forward positions to deliver crosses and key passes. Over his career, he recorded 44 goals and 131 assists, figures notable for a defender primarily tasked with defensive duties.[32] At Barcelona alone, he amassed 21 goals and 100 assists in 391 appearances, often exploiting spaces on the right flank with overlapping runs that complemented wingers like Lionel Messi.[122] His style emphasized high positioning and pace, enabling him to function effectively as a right winger during build-up play, a trait that influenced modern full-back roles prioritizing offensive contributions over strict defensive marking.[116][115] In terms of direct goal involvement, Alves contributed 312 total goal involvements (76 goals and 236 assists) across 1,018 professional matches, underscoring his dual-threat presence.[123] He scored 30 goals and provided 31 assists in 503 top-five European league games, with additional output in competitions like the UEFA Champions League (12 goals, 11 assists in 111 appearances).[124] Analysts have highlighted his dribbling and crossing accuracy as key to these metrics, allowing him to dismantle defenses through one-on-one duels and precise deliveries into the penalty area.[125] Alves demonstrated particular proficiency in set pieces, especially free kicks, where his technique involved a swerving delivery from 3-4 steps back, often bending the ball around the wall. He scored five free-kick goals in competitive play, including a notable 19-yard strike in the 88th minute against the United States in the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup semi-final, securing Brazil's advancement.[126][127] Other highlights included a debut free-kick goal for Paris Saint-Germain in the 2017 Trophée des Champions and a Champions League effort against Dinamo Zagreb in 2016.[128][129] He was recognized among La Liga's top free-kick specialists during his Barcelona tenure, earning honorable mentions for conversion rates from dangerous positions.[130] For corners, Alves frequently took duties, contributing one headed goal from a corner in his career logs, leveraging his delivery precision to create scoring chances for teammates.[127][131]

Personal Life

Family Dynamics and Relationships

Dani Alves was first married to Dinorah Santana, who also acted as his agent, with the couple having two children: a son named Daniel and a daughter named Victoria, born in October 2007.[132][133] The marriage ended in separation over a decade prior to 2025, amid reports of personal and professional strains.[133] In 2017, Alves married Spanish model Joana Sanz, though their relationship experienced significant turbulence, including a brief separation and divorce filing by Sanz during Alves' imprisonment on sexual assault charges in 2023.[134] Sanz later withdrew the divorce proceedings following Alves' release from prison in March 2024, and the couple reconciled, with Sanz announcing her pregnancy on March 31, 2025—three days after Alves' conviction was overturned on appeal.[135][136] On October 7, 2025, Alves and Sanz welcomed their first child together, a birth that occurred in Barcelona, with the infant's name reportedly beginning with the letter "J."[137][138][139] This followed Sanz's prior struggles with three miscarriages.[136] During his incarceration, Alves reportedly reconnected with his two children from his first marriage, emphasizing a focus on family reconciliation.[140] Post-release, tensions persisted between Santana and Sanz, with Santana publicly criticizing Sanz in September 2025 for allegedly exploiting Alves' legal troubles for personal gain.[133] Alves' mother, Lucía Alves, has maintained public support for her son throughout his legal challenges, including family gatherings in Barcelona in July 2024.[141]

Philanthropy and Public Persona

Alves has participated in various charitable initiatives, including donating treatments for Hepatitis C to 300 affected individuals in Bolivia in August 2016.[142] In March 2015, he collaborated with Barcelona teammate José Manuel Pinto to record the pop song "Eres Especial" ("You're Special"), with proceeds directed to FEACAB, an organization aiding people with eating disorders.[143] [144] He has also supported broader football-related charity efforts, such as organizing and participating in matches benefiting UNICEF and children's AIDS foundations, alongside attending events like a 2017 auction for Instituto Neymar Jr., which promotes sports and education for underprivileged youth.[145] [146] A notable personal gesture occurred in 2012–2013 when Alves offered to donate part of his liver to Barcelona teammate Eric Abidal, who required a transplant due to liver cancer; Abidal's cousin ultimately provided the organ, but the offer underscored Alves's willingness to extend beyond professional ties.[147] [148] Publicly, Alves cultivated an image as a charismatic and resilient figure, characterized by his witty commentary, optimistic outlook, and affinity for vibrant fashion choices off the field.[149] [150] Hailing from humble rural origins in Juazeiro, Brazil, as one of five children in a family reliant on farm labor, he often emphasized harmony and positivity in interviews, positioning himself as a motivator both on and off the pitch.[13] [150] His social media presence, including Instagram, reinforced this persona through personal reflections and inspirations drawn from close relationships.[151]

Legal Issues

Sexual Assault Allegations, Trial, Conviction, Acquittal, and Appeals

On December 30, 2022, a 23-year-old woman alleged that Dani Alves sexually assaulted her in the bathroom of the Sutton nightclub in Barcelona, claiming he forced her inside, ignored her refusals, and penetrated her vaginally and with his foot despite her lack of consent.[152][153] She reported the incident to police shortly after, providing a consistent account supported by medical evidence of bruises and DNA from Alves on her knee, though no witnesses directly observed the encounter.[152][153] Alves initially denied knowing the accuser or entering the bathroom with her, later revising his statement to claim consensual sex after she initiated contact, attributing inconsistencies to fear of his wife learning of the affair.[152][154] Alves was arrested on January 20, 2023, upon returning from Brazil, and remanded in custody without bail by a Barcelona court, citing flight risk given his international profile and lack of fixed Spanish residence.[154][155] He remained detained in Brians 2 prison for over a year, during which he fulfilled civil liability by paying the accuser €150,000 in May 2023.[153] The trial occurred February 20–22, 2024, before a three-judge panel at Barcelona's Provincial Court, where prosecutors sought a nine-year sentence for aggravated sexual assault, emphasizing the victim's credible testimony under Spain's 2022 "Only Yes Means Yes" law prioritizing consent and reducing reliance on physical violence proof.[152][153] The court convicted Alves of sexual assault on February 22, 2024, sentencing him to the statutory minimum of four years and six months' imprisonment, plus five years' probation and a nine-year ban from contacting the victim, reasoning that the assault involved violence or intimidation to overcome lack of consent, but mitigated by his payment and lack of prior record.[152][153][154] Both sides appealed: Alves contested the conviction's factual basis, while prosecutors sought a longer term; he was granted €1 million bail in March 2024 pending resolution.[154][155] On March 28, 2025, Catalonia's Audiencia Provincial overturned the conviction on Alves's appeal, ruling insufficient evidence to prove non-consent beyond reasonable doubt, citing contradictions in the accuser's testimony against objective video footage of her demeanor entering and exiting the bathroom, and inconsistencies in her account of events preceding the alleged assault.[154][155][156] State prosecutors announced an appeal to Spain's Supreme Court in April 2025, followed by the accuser's representatives in September 2025, leaving the acquittal intact but the case pending final resolution as of October 2025.[157][158]

Tax Investigations and Resolutions

In June 2016, Spanish tax authorities accused Dani Alves of owing €1.3 million in unpaid taxes related to his income earned while playing for Barcelona between 2011 and 2015.[159][160] Alves disputed the claims, arguing that the assessments incorrectly classified certain image rights and endorsement payments as taxable income subject to higher rates.[161] Alves pursued multiple appeals through Spain's court system. In November 2023, the Supreme Court upheld one such appeal, ruling that the Tax Agency had erred in its calculations and ordering a refund of €3.2 million to Alves for overpaid taxes on image rights from his Barcelona period.[162] His tax lawyer, Fernando Mota, secured victories in four related cases against the agency, compelling it to return over €9 million in total, including principal and interest accrued from 2015 onward.[161] These resolutions demonstrated that the initial tax demands had overstated liabilities by misapplying deductions for non-salary income, with courts affirming Alves' proper declarations.[163] In Brazil, the Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal) opened an investigation into a €9.8 million deposit Alves received from a company unrelated to his football earnings, probing potential undeclared income and irregular tax treatment.[164] As of October 2025, no resolution or formal charges have been publicly announced, though the probe stems from routine audits of high-profile athletes' offshore transactions.[164] Additional Spanish tax scrutiny persisted into 2023, with reports of a potential €2 million liability tied to undeclared assets, but this was subsumed into the broader appeals process and resolved favorably alongside the prior refunds.[165] By early 2024, outstanding refunds from the Tax Agency, including €1.2 million, aided Alves in posting bail amid unrelated legal proceedings.[161]

Retirement and Post-Career Developments

Formal Retirement and Potential Comebacks

Dani Alves's professional playing career concluded effectively on January 21, 2023, when Liga MX club Pumas UNAM terminated his contract shortly after his arrest on sexual assault charges in Barcelona.[1] [166] This followed a brief stint with Pumas, where he had signed in July 2022 after leaving Barcelona, appearing in 13 matches without scoring.[1] Unlike prior club departures, such as his Instagram farewell from Barcelona on June 15, 2022, no explicit retirement statement was issued by Alves, with the interruption attributed to legal circumstances rather than voluntary cessation.[167] Following his release on bail in March 2024 and the overturning of his conviction by a Spanish court in March 2025, Alves voiced intentions to resume football activities.[168] [169] At age 42, however, no professional contract has materialized, compounded by a September 2025 Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling requiring him to pay Pumas approximately $2.2 million in a contract dispute.[166] Speculation about a playing comeback persisted into late 2025, highlighted by a viral video in September showing Alves participating in football drills while wearing a Boca Juniors jersey.[170] This appearance, reported by Argentine media, prompted fan discussions of a potential move to the club but lacked confirmation of any formal trial or signing, appearing instead as informal or promotional activity.[171] Earlier reports suggested Alves might pursue non-playing roles, such as technical staff, rather than a competitive return given his age and hiatus.[172] As of October 2025, no verified professional engagements have been secured, leaving his post-legal football involvement uncertain.[173]

Recent Personal and Professional Activities

Following his acquittal on sexual assault charges by Catalonia's High Court on March 28, 2025, which overturned a prior conviction citing procedural flaws and insufficient evidence, Dani Alves has engaged in informal football activities, including pick-up games in Barcelona.[155][135] Spanish state prosecutors have indicated plans to appeal the acquittal, though no resolution has been reported as of October 2025.[174] On the professional front, Alves faces ongoing financial obligations from his brief stint with Liga MX club Pumas UNAM, where his contract was terminated in January 2023 amid the initial charges.[166] The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled on September 17, 2025, that he must pay Pumas approximately $2.2 million in compensation for breach of contract, rejecting his claims related to the legal proceedings.[166] No new professional contracts or coaching roles have been announced, and Alves has not pursued formal competitive play since his 2023 retirement declaration. In his personal life, Alves' partner, Spanish model Joana Sanz, announced on October 23, 2025, that she is expecting their first child together, amid signs of reconciliation following the strain of his 15-month imprisonment from January 2023 to March 2024.[135] Sanz publicly expressed a focus on the present and implied forgiveness, stating she is "living in the present" after the ordeal.[135] This development follows their earlier separation announcements during the legal saga, highlighting a restoration of family dynamics.

Career Statistics

Club Appearances and Goals

Dani Alves commenced his professional career with Bahia in Brazil, featuring in 25 matches and scoring 1 goal across the 2001 and 2002 seasons.[25] In July 2002, he joined Sevilla on loan, which became permanent, remaining with the club until June 2008; during this period, he recorded 249 appearances and 16 goals in all competitions.[25] Alves transferred to FC Barcelona in July 2008 for a fee of €35.5 million, departing in 2016 before a short return from November 2021 to March 2022; in total for the Catalan club, he made 408 appearances and scored 22 goals.[25] On a free transfer, he signed with Juventus in August 2016, leaving after one season in which he accumulated 33 appearances and 2 goals.[25] Alves joined Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer in July 2017, departing in August 2019 with 73 appearances and 8 goals to his name.[25] Returning to Brazil, he signed with São Paulo in August 2019 on a free transfer, playing until September 2021 and registering 95 appearances alongside 9 goals.[25] His final professional engagement came with Pumas UNAM in January 2022, where he made 13 appearances without scoring before retiring later that year.[25] Across his club career, Alves amassed over 890 competitive appearances and more than 50 goals, primarily as a right-back known for his attacking contributions from defense.[25]

International Caps and Records

Dani Alves debuted for the Brazil senior national team on 10 October 2006, in a 2–1 friendly victory over Ecuador in Göteborg, Sweden.[175] He went on to earn 126 caps and score 8 goals across his international tenure, which spanned from 2006 to 2022.[101] His first international goal came on 15 July 2007 in the Copa América final against Argentina, contributing to a 3–0 win.[175] Alves retired from international duty following Brazil's 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, where he made a substitute appearance against South Korea on 5 December 2022, aged 39 years and 213 days—making him the oldest player to feature for Brazil in a World Cup match at that time.[4] Alves participated in major tournaments including three FIFA World Cups (2010, 2014, 2022), six Copa América editions (2007, 2011, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2021), and two FIFA Confederations Cups (2009, 2013).[101] Brazil secured victories in the 2007 and 2019 Copa América with Alves in the squad, the latter as tournament captain; he also won the 2009 and 2013 Confederations Cups.[101] In Copa América play, he recorded 19 appearances, the most among Brazilian players in the competition's modern era.[101]
CompetitionAppearancesGoals
FIFA World Cup111
Copa América192
FIFA Confederations Cup80
World Cup qualifiers302
Friendlies583
Total1268
At the time of his international retirement, Alves ranked as Brazil's third-most capped player overall, behind Cafu (142 caps) and ahead of Roberto Carlos (125 caps).[176] He also holds distinctions such as the most appearances by a Brazilian right-back and contributed to Brazil's defensive solidity, including clean sheets in key knockout matches like the 2010 World Cup quarter-final penalty shootout win over Paraguay.[4][101]

Honours and Legacy

Club Trophies and Individual Awards

Dani Alves accumulated 38 club trophies across his professional career, establishing himself as one of the most decorated players in football history.[177][3] At Sevilla FC (2002–2008), he won two UEFA Cups (2005–06, 2006–07), one Copa del Rey (2006–07), one Supercopa de España (2007), and two UEFA Super Cups (2006, 2007).[3][177] With FC Barcelona (2008–2016, 2021–2022), his haul included six La Liga titles (2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16), five Copa del Rey titles (2008–09, 2011–12, 2013–14, 2014–15, 2015–16), three UEFA Champions League titles (2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15), three FIFA Club World Cups (2009, 2011, 2015), three UEFA Super Cups (2009, 2011, 2015), and four Supercopa de España titles (2009, 2010, 2011, 2013).[21][3] During his stint at Juventus (2016–2017), Alves secured one Serie A title (2016–17) and one Coppa Italia (2016–17).[3] At Paris Saint-Germain (2017–2019), he claimed two Ligue 1 titles (2017–18, 2018–19), one Coupe de France (2017–18), and two Trophée des Champions (2017, 2018).[51][3] With São Paulo FC (2021), he contributed to one Campeonato Paulista title (2021).[3][21] Individually, Alves was recognized for his defensive prowess and attacking contributions through selections to elite teams. He featured in the FIFA FIFPro World XI in 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013, and in the UEFA Team of the Year in 2007, 2009, and 2011.[5]

International Accolades and Overall Impact

Dani Alves debuted for the Brazil senior national team on October 10, 2006, against Ecuador, and accumulated 126 caps, scoring 8 goals by the end of his international career in 2022.[175] He participated in three FIFA World Cups (2010, 2014, 2022), appearing in 11 matches across these tournaments without securing the title.[4] Alves contributed to Brazil's victories in two Copa América tournaments, winning in 2007 against Argentina (final score 3–0) and in 2019 against Peru (3–1).[3] He also secured two FIFA Confederations Cup titles, defeating the United States 3–2 in 2009 and Spain 3–0 in 2013.[3] [4] In 2021, at age 38, Alves captained Brazil's Olympic team to gold at the Tokyo Games (held in 2021 due to postponement), providing an assist in the 2–1 extra-time final win over Spain on August 6, marking his 43rd major trophy at the time.[3] [178] These achievements highlight Brazil's dominance in South American and invitational competitions during his era. Alves' international legacy rests on his role in sustaining Brazil's regional supremacy amid a lack of World Cup success, with his longevity—spanning 16 years and surpassing Roberto Carlos for second-most caps at one point—exemplifying defensive reliability and attacking overlaps from the right-back position.[179] [176] His 126 appearances rank him fourth all-time for Brazil, underscoring sustained excellence despite criticisms of occasional defensive lapses in high-stakes matches like the 2014 World Cup semifinal.[176] Overall, Alves elevated the full-back archetype internationally, blending trophy hauls with individual influence on Brazil's tactical evolution toward fluid, possession-based play.

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  125. 'Dani Alves is the world's best attacking right-back' | Goal.com US
  126. With One Swerving Free Kick, Brazil Darts Into Final Against U.S.
  127. Dani Alves - stats, career and market value - FotMob
  128. Incredible Dani ALVES FREE-KICK in PSG debut - Facebook
  129. 7 defenders who have scored from direct free-kicks in the UEFA ...
  130. La Liga's Top 5 Free-Kick Experts - Bleacher Report
  131. Porto 0-2 Juventus Events | UEFA Champions League 2016/17
  132. Dani Alves is the most-decorated footballer in history but is now a ...
  133. Dani Alves's ex-wife breaks her silence and slams Joana Sanz: 'She ...
  134. Dani Alves and Joana Sanz welcome their first baby together
  135. https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/dani-alves-partner-hints-forgiveness-130200102.html
  136. Dani Alves' wife reveals she's pregnant after three miscarriages in ...
  137. Dani Alves and Joana Sanz announce the birth of their first child ...
  138. Dani Alves and Joana Sanz 'welcome their first child together'
  139. Dani Alves welcomes first child with model wife Joana Sanz after ...
  140. Dani Alves – from 43 trophies to four years in prison - The Athletic
  141. Dani Alves 'meets up' with his entire family - La Vanguardia
  142. Dani Alves Donates Treatment to 300 People Who Have Hepatitis C ...
  143. Dani Alves, Jose Pinto record charity song - ESPN UK
  144. Barcelona footballer Dani Alves releases charity rap single – watch
  145. Dani Alves and the Most Generous Stars in World Football
  146. Dani Alves attends charity auction in Brazil wearing 'Manchester City ...
  147. Eric Abidal says Dani Alves offered him part of his liver for transplant
  148. Eric Abidal: Dani Alves offered Barcelona team-mate his liver - BBC
  149. Arrest shatters Dani Alves' image as soccer's witty winner - AP News
  150. 'I'm here to be positive' – Dani Alves feelgood factor returns to ...
  151. Dani Alves (@danielaalves) • Instagram photos and videos
  152. Dani Alves trial: Ex-Brazil player guilty of nightclub rape - BBC
  153. Soccer star Dani Alves is found guilty of rape and sentenced to 4 1/2 ...
  154. Spain court overturns Dani Alves sexual assault conviction - ESPN
  155. Former Brazil footballer Dani Alves has rape conviction quashed ...
  156. Footballer Dani Alves wins appeal in rape case - Le Monde
  157. Prosecutors to appeal Dani Alves acquittal of rape conviction - ESPN
  158. Spanish court overturns Dani Alves' rape conviction | Reuters
  159. Dani Alves in seven-figure Spanish tax debt | MARCA English
  160. Report: Ex-Barcelona defender Dani Alves owes €1.3m in back taxes
  161. Neymar's father and a tax refund, Dani Alves' best options to post ...
  162. Alves wins tax fraud case, earns €3m payout- report - ESPN
  163. Dani Alves, being in prison, wins 3.2 million euro judgment
  164. Dani Alves investigated for irregular income of £10m - BeSoccer
  165. Dani Alves 'facing £4m claim from former club UNAM Pumas for ...
  166. CAS: Dani Alves owes Liga MX Pumas $2.2m over contract dispute
  167. Dani Alves announces he is leaving FC Barcelona
  168. Daniel Alves da Silva News - NDTV Sports
  169. Dani Alves optimistic about football return despite jail stint
  170. Daniel Alves News - Latest Dani Alves News, Stats & Updates
  171. Dani Alves Going Full Xeneize Mode? The Brazilian popped up in ...
  172. Released from prison on bail, Dani Alves is planning a surprise ...
  173. What's the latest with Dani Alves? Here's what we know
  174. Dani Alves | AP News
  175. Dani Alves - Stats and titles won - Footballdatabase.eu
  176. Brazil's most-capped players of all time - list
  177. Dani Alves career in trophies - 90Min.com
  178. Brazil beat Spain in extra-time for back-to-back men's football gold
  179. Dani Alves passes Roberto Carlos to become the second ... - Reddit
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