Former Man City Striker Given A 9-Year Prison Sentence For Rape
Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
Rape and sexual assault claims have hit the western world badly in recent times, after several personalities in Hollywood, politicians, and government authorities have been alleged with the same, with incidents of the past now haunting them.
The same has happened in football. Former AC Milan, Real Madrid and Manchester City striker Robinho has been found guilty of rape in a Milanese disco in 2013, and has been given a nine-year sentence for the crime.
According to a report in Football Italia, the Tribunal in Milan found Robinho and five other men guilty of gang-rape of a 22-year-old Albanian woman.
While this incident happened, the 33-year-old Brazilian was playing for the Rossoneri at the time, and the event took place on January 22, 2013. The sentence will be put on hold until the appeals process is completed.
The Brazilian player had earlier denied the charges, but was found guilty. He has again shared a post on social media site, Instagram, claiming he had no participation in the episode, and that legal steps are being taken.
“On the news involving striker Robinho, in a fact that occurred a few years ago, we clarified that he already defended himself against the charges, saying he had no participation in the episode. All legal steps are already being taken regarding this decision in the first instance,” his claim read.
Robinho enjoyed success at Real Madrid before signing for Manchester City in 2008 for £32.5m – at the time making him the most expensive player in British football.
After making no impact in the Premier League, he then went on loan to Brazilian side Santos, before signing for Milan. The star forward is currently in Brazil, playing for Atlético Mineiro.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.