The president of La Liga, Javier Tebas has revealed that he is worried that Lionel Messi could leave Barcelona and La Liga after the Argentine maestro and his father was convicted of tax fraud. The La Liga chief also went on to defend Messi’s innocence. Speaking to reporters, he said:
"Of course I fear that [Messi] could leave, but the only thing I can tell him is that from La Liga we believe he isn't guilty and we are happy to have him here."
Lionel Messi’s lawyers have on many occasions defended the Barcelona talisman by saying that he was not familiar with the tax issues that lead to the charges against him. Angel Juarez, a partner at the law office that represented Messi at the time also defended saying, "The player wasn't involved in any of the decisions; He would show up only to sign the documents."
In Spain, convictions lasting less than 24 months are usually suspended meaning that both Messi and his dad will not go to jail in all likelihood.
Tebas clarified that the court ruled Messi and his father guilty of three counts of tax fraud.
"They were three verdicts of seven months each, not one of 21," he said. "They were not that severe. We are talking about process that wasn't properly followed. I don't think Messi is a criminal. He fell victim to a faulty fiscal structure which will be changed."
"There is no prejudice or personal attack against Messi or against Barcelona," he said. "The world of sport is under investigation."
Messi has repeatedly said that he sees his future in Barcelona, but with Chelsea and Manchester City said to be interested in securing his services, Messi might just make a move to get way from all the negative press and publicity.
Also Read: 5 worst moments in Lionel Messi’s life
Spanish court drops fraud investigation against Neymar
There was some good news for Lionel Messi’s Barcelona team-mate Neymar as the Spanish court opted to drop the investigation against the Brazilian.
Spain's High Court said on Friday it had dropped a fraud and corruption investigation into Brazilian soccer captain and Barcelona player Neymar saying no crime had been committed.
Charges were also dropped against his father and agent Neymar Da Silva Santos, former Barcelona president Sandro Rossell and ex-Santos president Odilio Rodrigues, according to a written ruling.
The charges related to Neymar's transfer to Barcelona from Brazilian football club Santos three years ago.
