Ex-Bayern Munich defender jailed for nearly four years for arson

A former Bayern Munich defender has been jailed for nearly four years are being found guilty of arson in Munich today.

Brazilian defender Breno was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison after being found guilty of deliberately setting fire to his home in the German city just under a year ago.

The 22-year old is believed to have started the blaze after returning to his house under the influence of alcohol last September, not long after his wife and children had left the premises. It is thought that the fire caused around €1.5 million in damages.

Breno was released by Bayern Munich at the end of the season, but is believed to have agreed terms with Serie A side Lazio, a deal which is now doomed after the verdict was delivered earlier today.

According to Germany's dpa agency, Breno told the court: "I would like to apologise for that night. I have not been a good role model. I am just a person who believes in God and thanks him for protecting my family.''

Bayern Munich also released a statement on the verdict which read: "Our hope was that Breno would have been able to continue his career as a footballer and, consequently, his life together with his family. FC Bayern will continue to support Breno.''

While sentencing Breno, the judge suggested that he may be allowed return to Brazil after serving two and a half years of the sentence, but even at that, it seems as if it might be the last we hear of a player who had such a promising career in front of him, having signed for the German side for €12 million from Sao Paulo as an 18-year old in 2007.