Barcelona Will Appeal Latest Legal Proceedings Brought Against Neymar and Club
Barcelona have confirmed their intention to appeal against the latest legal proceedings brought against Neymar and the club and maintain the claims of innocence for all parties in light of the newest charges over the Brazilian's controversial arrival from Santos in 2013.
After previous tax evasion charges, the drawn out story made headlines again this week after a Spanish judge accepted new corruption charges against Neymar and those involved in the transfer.
Following a board meeting on Monday, Barça have confirmed their firm stance on the issue.
A statement issued read, "The Board of Directors have decided to appeal against the interlocutory judgement made by judge José de la Mata in Madrid. He has proposed that the National Court open an indictment against the player, Neymar Jr, his parents, ex-president Sandro Rosell, president Jose Maria Bartomeu, and the club as a juridical person.
"This is in the context of the lawsuit interposed by the investment fund DIS because of the signing of the Brazilian player.
"The board expressed its surprise and total disagreement with this development and its reasoning, especially taking into account the same magistrate's decision to dismiss the case last July and no action took place against the president Bartomeu.
"If the judicial action starts, FC Barcelona will maintain the innocence of those who are being investigated."
Also outlined in the summary from the meeting was the latest on Barça fighting UEFA sanctions after fans displayed Catalan Estelada flags during several Champions League home games last season.
That case is currently under review by theCourt of Arbitration for Sport.
The statement read, "FC Barcelona have reiterated the right to freedom of expression on behalf of their members and fans and have argued that the flags are not offending anybody.
"The club have emphasised the need for UEFA's rules to evolve along the assumption that the right to freedom of expression is allowed as long as it is done in a peaceful manner."
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