Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has appeared in court to face charges of defrauding Spain's tax office of more than €1m (£836,857). Prosecutors allege the 64-year-old failed to declare earnings from image rights in 2014 and 2015 during his first spell at the club.
The Italian, who denies
wrongdoing, could face four years and nine months in prison if convicted, along
with a €3.2m fine. Authorities claim he only declared his Real Madrid salary
while omitting other income.
Ancelotti told reporters last
week: "I have complete trust in Spanish justice." Spain's tax agency
has already recovered the disputed amount plus interest.
The three-day trial comes after
similar cases involving football stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Diego Costa,
who settled out of court. However, Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso was acquitted
in 2023 after contesting charges.
One of football's most
decorated coaches, Ancelotti has won the Champions League five times - twice
with AC Milan and three times with Real Madrid, where he returned as manager in
2021.
The case continues. Parties may
still reach a settlement before verdict.
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