Friday, 14th June, 2013
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has given his full backing to star Lionel Messi over alleged tax fraud that could see a jail term for the Ballon d’Or winner.
Messi and his father Jorge have been accused of filing fraudulent tax returns to the tune of more than €4m for the period between 2007 and 2009, in allegations that surfaced on Wednesday.
The Argentine moved quickly to deny any wrongdoing – in a message via his Facebook page – claiming they had complied with all their obligations.
If proven guilty, however, the 25-year-old and his father face a jail sentence in Spain, with some reports claiming that a six-year term in prison was likely.
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However, the player’s club appear to be standing by him, with Rosell revealing he had met with the forward’s family.
Following a speech last night, Rosell told reporters: "I talked to the family, who are keeping silent for now. The club and I are also quiet and giving our support and encouragement because we have no doubt about Messi’s innocence."
Prosecutors in Spain are accusing Messi and his father of filing fraudulent tax returns, with the player earning millions through his salary and image-rights deals, alongside various sponsorship ventures.
And Rosell moved to clarify Barcelona’s position further by adding: "Barca image rights are paid to the company that has ownership of image rights.
"The law allows 15% of wages paid in image rights, and that is what happens in 95 percent of the clubs. We do not waive image rights, as there is a philosophy of sharing.
"From experience, I think we have a better system because we do not have conflicts and things are clearer."
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