After criticism for the silence on the cases of Robinho and Dani Alves, both convicted of two incidents of sexual violence, the Brazil national team and the Football Federation have finally broken their silence.
"As coach of the national team, I have an obligation to speak out," coach Dorival Junior said ahead of Saturday's friendly against England at Wembley.
"I think it is a very delicate situation. I think of the families and especially the victims affected by these cases that occur every day in our country and around the world."
Dorival, who took over the five-time world champions in January, said the Robinho situation he coached at Brazilian club Santos was particularly painful for him.
“If it has been proven that there was a crime, he must be punished even if it hurts my heart to say this about a person with whom I have always had an exceptional relationship,” added the 61-year-old coach.
"I didn't have the opportunity to work with Daniel (Dani Alves, ed.), but we all know his history in football. It's a difficult time for all of us to express ourselves in these situations. But I care much more about the victims, the families .
I know how painful it must have been for each of them. What I can do is help them with prayers, nothing more."
The Brazilian Football Confederation in a statement described the cases as "shameful", expressing its support for "the victims of the two brutal crimes committed by former players".
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