Lionel Messi set to be prosecuted, could face 22 months in jail

lionel-messi-barcelona-la-liga_3248555-1425893997
lionel-messi-barcelona-la-liga_3248555-1425893997

Lionel Messi has been accused of tax fraud by the authorities in Spain.

Although the Barcelona legend was cleared of the allegations earlier this week, it seems Messi will be prosecuted in Spain for his charges.

Lionel Messi and his father could face upto 22 months in jail if they are found guilty.

The Criminal tax charges against Messi were dropped on Tuesday, but the authorities have decided to re-open the case.

Messi and his father were accused of defrauding Spanish authorities for more than €4 million.

Prosecutors state that Jorge Messi avoided paying tax on his son’s earnings by using offshore companies in Belize and Uruguay between 2007 and 2009.

Spain’s state attorney has now demanded a 22-month jail sentence for the Barcelona superstar.

Messi’s lawyers have argued that the player had “never devoted a minute of his life to reading, studying or analysing” the contracts. Furthermore, they have also asked for the charges to be dropped, but the request has not been granted.

Lionel Messi will have to stand trial in a Spanish court soon.

More to follow.

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