Former Brazil international and footballer-turned-pastor Dani Alves has reflected on his time in prison, saying he found greater happiness earning €113 as a cleaner than he did while making millions during his football career.
Alves made the remarks while sharing his testimony during a church service in Guatemala, where he spoke about his Christian faith and the lessons he learned while incarcerated.
According to the former defender, his experience behind bars transformed his perspective on life, teaching him that spiritual fulfilment is more valuable than financial success.
“I was earning millions of euros, thanks to God and to football, but in prison, earning 113 euros, I was happier than when earning millions. Before, I was playing football and now I was in prison cleaning the house, but I had my father [God] with me. I would say: ‘What are millions of euros worth without a father?’” Alves said.
He added that his faith gave him a renewed sense of purpose and inner peace that wealth alone could not provide.
