The Brazil international has opened up about his disdain for many aspects of a footballer's life, suggesting that "the more money you have, the more problems"
Dani Alves is one of the most recognisable defenders of his generation, having enjoyed a trophy-laden career at the top of European football, but he insists fame isn't all it's made out to be.
The list of honours won by the Brazil international with Sevilla and Barcelona includes five Spanish league titles, three Champions Leagues, two UEFA Cups and four Copa del Reys.
But in an interview with the Guardian, Alves insists he doesn't understand why people crave the stardom his career has bestowed upon him.
“Now, everyone’s on their phone, no one talks to anyone, they’re all looking down [at social media], seeing what others are saying about them,” the 32-year-old said.
“[But] the more you know the world today, the more it disappoints. I don’t understand why everyone fights for power, money, fame. Has no one stopped to think that fame is s***? That the more money you have, the more problems?”
Having spent nearly eight years at Camp Nou and signed a new contract last summer, Alves has earned millions as one of world football's premier right-backs.
But while Alves acknowledges that his wages allow him to buy luxuries only few can dream of, he is a firm believer that money doesn't evoke true happiness.
“Everyone wants, wants, wants... and when they have, they feel desperate. Money’s a necessary evil, there to give you moments,” he continued.
“It gives me things I couldn’t have, nice things, but happiness? That’s a not a question of money and fame. Quite the opposite. If you’re famous, people are there: ‘Look, look, the famous guy.’”
The former Sevilla full-back added that he would rather not be labelled according to his wealth and status.
“I play football, you’re a journalist, you’re a photographer, but we’re all people,” Alves said.
“Yet there are labels: famous, normal, rich, poor ... for me ‘rich’ isn’t having lots of money; rich is having loads of things in your head.”
- Goal