Former Manchester City and Real Madrid footballer Robinho 'sentenced to 9 years in prison' for sexual assault

Brazilian footballer, Robinho, has reportedly been sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of sexual assault. Reports in Italy claim that the former Manchester City and Real Madrid star, along with five others, was implicated in an attack on an Albanian girl in a Milan nightclub in January 2013.

The incident, which the player has repeatedly denied his involvement in, occurred when the 33-year-old was at AC Milan following his departure from the Etihad in 2010, Sportsmail reported.

Robinho's agent and lawyer, Marisa Alija Ramos, told Sportsmail: 'With regards to the allegations surrounding Robinho, the alleged incident took place several years ago.

'I clarify that my client has already defended himself against the charges and maintains he played no part in the incident.

'All legal steps are already being taken in response to this decision.'

According to Marisa, the skillful striker who currently plays for Atlético Mineiro in Brazil, pleaded not guilty and never appeared at any of the court hearings in northern Italy.

He has a right to two appeals and Italy would only launch extradition proceedings once this legal process is exhausted, a legal source said.

The Milan court ordered the victim to receive €60,000 (£53,000) as compensation for her suffering.

Robinho who is known for his ball control, attacking instinct and dribbling, played for  Santos, Real Madrid, Manchester City, AC Milan and Guangzhou Evergrande.