In recent times, several footballers accused of serious crimes such as assault and rape have tarnished the sport’s reputation. While footballers often gain fame for their accomplishments on the field, it’s important to acknowledge those who have damaged their reputation through significant off-the-field mistakes.
It’s worth noting that the individuals mentioned are only those whose names have been publicly disclosed. There may be others facing similar accusations whose identities remain undisclosed due to ongoing investigations.
1. Dani Alves (Sexual assault)
The alleged incident occurred on the night of December 31 in Barcelona. Following his arrest by the police, a case was filed against the full-back. On February 22, 2024, he was found guilty of the charges by Catalonia’s highest court and sentenced to four years and six months in prison. Additionally, Alves will undergo five years of supervised surveillance after serving his prison term. He is also required to cover the victim’s legal expenses and provide her with an additional €150,000 as compensation.
The incident took place on New Year’s Eve, leading to subsequent charges. The Brazilian’s last professional engagement was with the Mexican club Pumas UNAM, where his contract was terminated in January 2023.
2. Ched Evans (Rape)
The ex-Sheffield United forward faced charges of raping a 19-year-old intoxicated woman. Following a five-year prison sentence, Evans was released in 2014 and subsequently joined League One club Chesterfield. However, he was eventually acquitted of the rape accusation, yet suffered significant damage to his reputation as a result of the unfounded allegations.
3. Benjamin Mendy (Rape/Sexual Assault)
Once heralded as a significant acquisition for Manchester City, Benjamin Mendy’s reputation and career have taken a nosedive following revelations about his interactions with women last year. The left-back faces seven counts of rape involving four women, as well as one count of sexual assault. After spending 134 days in custody, he was recently released on bail. Manchester City has suspended him from the club.
4. Adam Johnson (Underage Sex)
Former Manchester City and Sunderland midfielder spent five years in jail after being found guilty of engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl in March 2016. The Englishman was sacked from Sunderland and stripped of his sponsorship deal with Adidas. He was released in 2021 and is reportedly living a luxurious life since due to his investments.
5. Mason Greenwood (Rape and assault)
Mason Greenwood of Manchester United was arrested in January 2022 on suspicion of assault and coercive behavior. Since then, he has been a part of one of the most talked about and well publicized cycles of sexual assault allegations in modern football history.
The striking star’s case is unusual since the 21-year-old England international is still in a relationship with Harriet Robson, who has accused him of physical violence.
Robson made audio recordings and video of an argument with Greenwood public, in which the Manchester United forward seemed to be forcing a sexual act on her.
Prosecutors, however, ultimately chose not to press charges against Greenwood after several important witnesses withdrew their testimonies.
The pair has since become engaged and parents to a kid together, all the while Greenwood is serving out his suspension from Manchester United, which is still looking into the matter.