I deserve a statue – Barcelona legend Gerard Pique reportedly fights back tears amid trial for alleged fraud

Gerard Pique

Gerard Piqué is currently embroiled in a legal battle amid serious allegations of fraud and corruption.

Barcelona and Spain legend Gerard Piqué is fighting to clear his name as he stands trial over alleged fraud and corruption linked to the controversial Supercopa de España deal.

The former footballer’s company, Kosmos, played a key role in negotiating a lucrative agreement to relocate the tournament to Saudi Arabia in partnership with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). 

However, Spanish authorities are now investigating whether Piqué unfairly profited from the deal, with accusations of fraudulent business dealings surrounding the contract.

Gerard Pique

Gerard Pique won 38 trophies as a player | Imago

Spanish outlet Relevo, reports that Kosmos pocketed over €10 million (£8m/$11m) in commissions, with €1.6 million of that sum reportedly paid directly to Piqué earlier this year. 

Also implicated in the scandal is former RFEF president Luis Rubiales, who faces even more serious accusations of money laundering.

While giving testimony, Piqué vehemently denied any wrongdoing, insisting that his dual role as a Barcelona player at the time had no influence on his financial gains.

However, Sport is reporting that Piqué himself admitted to personally reaching out to the disgraced Rubiales, after Saudi Arabian authorities failed to transfer his payment on time.

Piqué reportedly breaks down in Court

Gerard Pique

Gerard Pique reportedly broke down in court during his trial over allegations of fraud | Credit: AP

As the trial unfolded, Piqué was said to be on the verge of tears while addressing the court, struggling to hold back his emotions.

 The legal battle, he revealed, has caused him “enormous damage” both personally and professionally.

“In another country, I would have a statue,” he declared, expressing frustration over how his contributions to football are being overlooked in the wake of the scandal.

The fallout from this case has already led the RFEF to introduce new regulations, preventing active players from striking business deals with the governing body. 



Source link

Spread the love

Be the first to comment

Comment and Earn N5.... comments are approved manually by admin.. Comment must be long and from the post.. short comments will not be approved