Former Chilean football star Jorge Valdívia arrested on rape charges

Allegations of sexual assault against current and former football stars continue to make headlines, with the latest being retired Chilean player Jorge Valdívia, known for his time at Al Ain and Al Wahda in the UAE.

Valdívia, 41, was arrested in Chile on Tuesday following a rape complaint. Judge Eli Rothfield ordered his detention at the Rancagua prison due to the serious nature of the allegations and their implications for the victim. If convicted, Valdívia faces a possible prison sentence of up to 15 years.

According to police, the alleged incident occurred after Valdívia dined with a woman on Sunday night and subsequently went to her home. The player has issued a statement denying the charges, claiming that the encounter was consensual, and expressed confidence in the police's ability to uncover the truth.

Valdívia was a prominent figure in Chile's golden generation, winning the Copa América in 2015 and participating in the 2010 and 2014 World Cups. He also had a stint with Brazilian club Palmeiras.