Former Bayern defender Vicinius Breno has been found guilty of starting a fire in his own house and been sentenced to three years and nine months in prison by Munich State Court.
The young Brazilian moved to Allianz Arena as an eighteen year old but struggled to force his way into the first team. Once considered as the next big thing in European football, Breno’s career hit a downward slide and was finally released by the Bundesliga club this summer.
“I would like to apologise for that night,” Breno is reported to have told the courtroom “I have not been a good role model. I am just a person who believes in God and thanks him for protecting my family.”
Breno’s solicitor Werner Leitner has pleaded with the Court to suspend the sentence or reduce the penalty to two and a half years. However, judge Rosi Daztmann rejected all pleas and sentenced him to three years and nine months in German prison.
The 22 year old’s former employers Bayern Munich released a statement expressing solidarity with the player. “Our hope was that Breno would have been able to continue his career as a footballer and, consequently, his life together with his family,” it read.
“FC Bayern will continue to support Breno.”