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Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is set to stand trial in Spain over accusations of tax fraud dating back to his first tenure with the club. The 65-year-old Italian coach is alleged to have misrepresented his earnings to Spanish tax authorities between 2014 and 2015, potentially avoiding tax payments amounting to over €1 million ($1 million).
Prosecutors claim that Ancelotti used offshore companies to obscure his financial dealings and evade taxation on a significant portion of his income during his time with Los Blancos. If found guilty, the veteran coach could face a prison sentence of up to four years and nine months.
Ancelotti, however, has strongly denied any wrongdoing. He maintains that he was not legally required to pay Spanish taxes for the period in question, arguing that he did not meet the 183-day residency threshold. The Italian has also stated that any past tax discrepancies were the result of accounting errors, which have since been rectified.
The trial date has been set for April 2, just a day after Real Madrid's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad and less than a week before their crucial Champions League quarter-final clash with Arsenal. Despite the looming legal battle, Ancelotti remains confident that he will be exonerated.
"This is an old story," Ancelotti said. "The Prosecutor’s Office believes I was a resident in 2015, and I believe I wasn’t. The fine has been paid, and the case is in the hands of my lawyers. I’m convinced I’m innocent. Let’s see what the judge decides."
Ancelotti joins a list of high-profile football figures who have faced legal scrutiny over tax-related matters in Spain. Barcelona legend Lionel Messi and his father were previously convicted of tax fraud, while Cristiano Ronaldo also reached a settlement with Spanish authorities over similar allegations.
The outcome of Ancelotti’s case remains to be seen, but for now, the decorated manager continues to focus on guiding Real Madrid through a crucial phase of the season while his legal team handles the battle off the pitch.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Omar Ramadan, Pixabay / Jossué Trejo
