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La Liga president says Lionel Messi might leave Barcelona

Barcelona, July 9: La Liga President Javier Tebas shocked the world by revealing that FC Barcelona star and world's best player Lionel Messi might opt to move out of the league!

Lionel Messi and his father Jorge Messi were convicted on tax fraud charges earlier this week. The footballer was sentenced 21 months of jail and €2 million fine.

FC Barcelona's Lionel Messi, second left, duels for the ball against Valencia's Guilherme Siqueira during a Spanish La Liga match

In an interview to Spanish reporters, Tebas 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."

On Lionel Messi' tax fraud case, Tebas clarified the air saying: "They were three verdicts of seven months each, not one of 21.

"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. The world of sport is under investigation."

Previously on various occassions Messi supporters have defended their favourite star stating that he was not aware of the issue.

Angel Juarez, a partner at the law office that represented Lionel 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."

Earlier this week, reports in European media circulated that English Premier League giants Chelsea FC were keen on signing Messi for a record transfer fee. Tebas' statement has definitely added fuel to this huge transfer rumour.

OneIndia News

Story first published: Tuesday, August 8, 2017, 11:47 [IST]
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