Former Manchester City and Brazil forward Robinho has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of taking part in the rape of an Albanian woman in 2013.

The ex-Real Madrid and AC Milan striker, along with five other Brazilians, is accused of assaulting the woman, who was 22 at the time.

Robinho pleaded not guilty via his lawyer and did not appear at any of the court hearings in northern Italy.

“We would like to clarify that he has already defended himself against the accusations, affirming that he did not participate in the episode,” said a statement posted on Robinho’s Instagram feed. “All legal measures are being taken.”

Robinho’s sentence will be put on hold until the appeals process is completed, while his assailants’ whereabouts are unknown, meaning their trial has been put on hold.

The Milan court ordered the victim receive 60,000 euros ($71,000) as compensation for her suffering.

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