Carlo Ancelotti, the famous Real Madrid coach, is set to go on trial next week over allegations of tax fraud in Spain. A Madrid court confirmed on Friday that the case will begin on Wednesday and is expected to last two days.
Spanish authorities are pushing for a four-year and nine-month prison sentence for the 65-year-old Italian manager. Accusing him of failing to declare over €1 million ($1.1 million) in income from image rights between 2014 and 2015.
According to prosecutors, Ancelotti only reported his salary from Real Madrid. While allegedly concealing additional earnings through a complex network of offshore companies. Despite declaring himself a tax resident in Spain and listing his home in Madrid. He is accused of withholding income from both image rights and real estate investments.
Legal Proceedings and Ancelotti’s Response
The legal battle dates back to 2023, when a Spanish court ruled that Ancelotti must stand trial. However, a specific date was not set at the time. Speaking about the issue last year, Ancelotti dismissed it as “an old story that I hope will be resolved soon.”
Despite these legal troubles, Ancelotti remains one of the most successful football managers in history. He holds a record five UEFA Champions League titles, with three won during his tenure at Real Madrid.
His coaching career has seen him claim domestic league titles in Spain, Italy, England, Germany, and France, having led AC Milan, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Napoli, and Everton before making his highly anticipated return to Real Madrid in 2021.
As the trial approaches, all eyes will be on the court proceedings and how they might impact Ancelotti’s future in football. If found guilty, he could face serious legal consequences, potentially affecting his managerial career.
