Brazilian football star Dani Alves was released from prison on Monday after posting bail of 1 million euros ($1.2 million) while appealing a rape conviction, according to a Spanish court.

Alves, a former Barcelona player, surrendered his passports as part of the bail conditions. Prosecutors had opposed his release on bail, citing a potential flight risk.

In a trial that lasted three days last month, Alves was found guilty of raping a woman in a nightclub in December 2022 and was sentenced to four years and six months in prison. Throughout the trial, he maintained his innocence.

The 40-year-old Alves, dressed in jeans, a black jacket, and a white shirt, left the courthouse after spending the past 14 months in Brians II prison, located 45 minutes from Barcelona, where he was detained pending the investigation into the rape accusation against him.

Alves is not permitted to leave Spain and is prohibited from contacting the victim.

His release coincided with a protest by prison officers outside Brians II, demanding better conditions in jails in northeastern Catalonia following the killing of a prison cook by an inmate at another jail.

As part of his bail conditions, Alves must appear in court every Friday and when ordered. He also provided a contact number for authorities to reach him. Additionally, he is prohibited from being within 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) of the victim's home, workplace, or any other place she frequents.

Last week, a court allowed Alves to post bail after previous requests were denied due to concerns about him fleeing. The decision was split 2-1, with the majority believing the flight risk had decreased.

The state prosecutors' office in Barcelona has asked the court to reconsider this decision, arguing that the risk of Alves fleeing has increased since his conviction. They wanted him to remain in jail pending his appeal, noting that Brazil does not extradite its citizens.

There is no set date for Alves' appeal trial in a higher court in Barcelona. His lawyers are seeking his acquittal, while prosecutors are pushing for an increased sentence of nine years. The victim's lawyer is advocating for a 12-year prison term.

Alves, known for his successful career with clubs like Barcelona, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain, has won numerous titles, including three Champions Leagues and six Spanish leagues with Barcelona. He remains near Barcelona, where he has a residence.