England

Brazil Legend Pele Condemns Robinho

Pele has slammed party-boy Robinho in the wake of rape allegations against the Man City star.

Jan 29, 2009 4:56:44 AM

Edson Arantes do Nascimento - Pele

The godfather of modern Brazilian football - Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known to you and I as Pele - has uttered some scathing words about countryman Robinho.

The 25-year-old is flying the Brazilian flag in England, having completed a mega-money summer move to Manchester City from Real Madrid.

However, he's had two flurries of negative press lately. First he marched out of City's winter training camp to return to his homeland, and now, much worse, he's been accused of raping a teenager in a Leeds nightclub.

Robinho was arrested, questioned and bailed by police earlier this week.

Now, Pelé has lamented the situation, deeming Robinho a blight on Brazil's global reputation.

Speaking from Rio De Janeiro, whilst sitting with FIFA president Joseph Blatter, Robinho's former mentor is quoted as saying by several worldwide news outlets, "It's bad news because, as Brazilians, we fight to create a good image abroad.

"What happened with Robinho - as well as other players like Adriano and Ronaldo - has ruined the image of Brazilian soccer players around the world.

"It has closed doors."

Robinho, meanwhile, has vowed to clear his name.

Greg Ptolomey, Goal.com

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