"The Messi case should end in a fine"

Posted Sunday, October 11, 2015 by Marca.com

Marcos Mas, a government lawyer who previously served on Barca's Disciplinary Commission and Club Statutes Reform Commission, analysed the situation for MARCA, breaking things down into ten questions and answers. His opinion is that a deal will eventually be cut, with the star paying a fine and avoiding jail.

Is there any possibility of Messi going to prison? He shouldn't do.

Why are there differences between the stances of the tax authorities and the Public Prosecution Office? Because they serve different interests.

Can the Public Prosecution Office change its mind on the day of the trial? No, that's impossible.

Why have things been allowed to get this far, rather than preventing Leo from having to sit in the dock? Because so far there has been no agreement where the facts are concerned. The lawyers defending the player have never recognised the facts, for which reason an agreement has been out of the question.

Is it too late to avoid Leo sitting in the dock? An agreement or settlement can be reached even on the day of the trial.

When will the trial be and what stage are we at in the proceedings? It's impossible to say right now.

Could it clash with, say, a key Champions League game, forcing Messi to miss it? In the event of such a clash, the hearing could be postponed if a valid reason were substantiated.

What is the tax authorities' primary objective in this case? They are not looking to imprison anyone or to set an example about paying taxes. If they believe a criminal offence has been committed, they are obligated to take action.

Is the State Legal Service willing to reach a settlement? Of course, so long as the relevant sums are recouped.

What is the ideal conclusion to this case? The best thing for the tax authorities would be to secure the unpaid amount plus a fine for the public coffers. It is obviously in the player's best interests to avoid the ordeal of a trial conducted under an intense media spotlight.