Former Brazil and Barcelona defender Dani Alves has resurfaced in the public eye, this time behind a pulpit rather than on the pitch.
The 42-year-old was spotted preaching at the Elim Pentecostal Church in Girona, Spain, amid growing controversy surrounding the congregation’s ongoing investigation for sexual abuse.
From jail to the pulpit
Alves’ reappearance marks a turn in a turbulent two years. Recall the former footballer was arrested in January 2023 while playing for Mexican side Pumas and later charged with rape.
Following months of investigation and a high-profile trial, he was sentenced to four and a half years in prison in February 2024.
However, after being granted bail pending appeal, Alves was eventually acquitted of all charges, a decision the prosecution has since vowed to challenge.
Since his release, Alves has publicly embraced religion, frequently posting Bible verses on social media. His presence at the Elim Church, where he was seen preaching to music before a congregation, appears to reflect this new chapter.
Deputy Pastor Sammy Thomas told El Periódico that Alves had been invited to speak at a youth event.
“We met Dani and we believe he has a great testimony to help young people,” Thomas said. “He loves God, wants to preach God and came to share with us. That’s all there is to it.”
Church under scrutiny
The Elim Pentecostal Church, part of an international network that originated in El Salvador, is itself facing scrutiny.
According to Crónica Global, its branch in Terrassa, near Barcelona, is under investigation for multiple cases of sexual abuse. One pastor has also been accused of defrauding members of nearly €19.4 million.
The church has been linked to far-right movements in Central America, and other Elim congregations in England and New Zealand have recently seen convictions of pastors for similar offenses.
While Alves’ appearance was reportedly limited to guest preaching, his association with an organization under such investigation has raised even more concerns over his public rehabilitation and the appropriateness of his chosen platform.