Friday, 21st June, 2013
Lionel Messi continues to defend himself publicly over allegations of tax fraud, as his lawyers today expressed their utmost confidence in the player’s innocence.
Messi’s legal counsel released a statement on behalf of the player and his father, who are both accused of tax fraud in Spain, insisting that the pair would fully comply with state procedures.
Lionel and Jorge Messi stand accused of avoiding tax worth more than €4m, with a court date set for their appearance as part of the investigation process.
Formal charges could follow, with the summons set for 17th September and, if found guilty, the pair face a jail term.
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However, lawyers on behalf of the pair were confident about their clients emerging on the right side of justice, whilst urging speculation to be kept to a minimum.
"We respect and abide by the ruling", the statement read. "And we are at the disposal of the justice system to help resolve this matter and establish the truth.
"We are confident we can clarify this difference of opinion, and we regret that [people] want to question our client’s reputation."
The Barcelona star has already made clear that all tax dues were paid, in a Facebook message shortly after the allegations surfaced, and the counsel moved to confirm that position.
"We declare that our client will pay the amounts finally determined", the statement continued. "But we believe that our client has already paid what legally belonged [to the state].
"We firmly believe in our client’s innocence. We ask that you let the justice system, in which we have confidence, work.
"We trust that the judicial inquiry can resolve this issue in the shortest possible time. The issue has put our client in a situation of helplessness, which we deeply regret."
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