After being accused of sexual assault, Dani Alves was moved to a new detention facility for security reasons, according to Catalan officials on Monday.
The “smaller living units” in the new correctional facility make it simpler to ensure the security and cohabitation of detainees.
The decision to transfer Alves, according to the authorities, did not take into account the nature of the crime of which he is charged.
Alves spent three nights at a different prison, which had room for 200 convicts. The new one has room for around 80 inmates, including those who have been convicted of crimes and those who are awaiting trial.
Alves is anticipated to first share a cell with another prisoner.
Alves, 39, is charged with sexually assaulting a 23-year-old woman in a Barcelona nightclub late last year. After hearing the testimony of Alves, his accuser, and a witness, the judge issued a ruling ordering the Brazil defender to remain in custody without bail.
He has said he did nothing wrong.
The family of Alves was reportedly considering changing his legal counsel on Monday, according to Spanish media.
Alves won 42 soccer championships, including two Copa Americas with Brazil and three Champions Leagues with Barcelona. Last month, he participated in his third World Cup, the only major championship he has yet to win.