In light of tax evasion accusations levelled at Cristiano Ronaldo in recent days, Real Madrid have put out a statement in support of their leading man - calling for him to be given the 'utmost respect'.
German newspaper Der Spiegelclaim that leakeddocuments show that the Portugal superstar may have 'hidden 150 million euros in tax havens in Switzerland and the British Virgin Islands'.
Official Announcement.https://t.co/SgaILoM5Ls#RealMadrid pic.twitter.com/pNfvMkZHuu
Jorge Mendes' agencyGestifute, who represent Ronaldo, released a statement after the accusations were made. That release includeda letter purported to be from the Spanish tax authority 'confirming that Cristiano Ronaldo is up to date on his obligations', which appears to have convinced his club of his innocence.
In their statement, posted on Tuesday night, Los Blancos wrote:"Inview of the stories published over recent days and in consideration of the certificate issued by the Spanish Tax Agency which confirms that our player Cristiano Ronaldo is up to date with all of his tax obligations, Real Madrid C. F. call for the utmost respect to be shown towards Cristiano Ronaldo, whose conduct has been absolutely exemplary throughout all of his time at our club."
23 - Since Mesut Ozil's Champions League debut, only Lionel Messi (24) and Cristiano Ronaldo (26) have provided more assists. Architect.
Part ofGestifute's statement, meanwhile, read: "When dealing with his clients and the authorities, Gestifute has always been fully committed with the observance of the best practices in all the countries in which it operates.
"The company's objective is to provide the best professional advice to its clients in every market, according to the local regulation, as it was and is the case with Cristiano Ronaldo and other clients.
"Cristiano Ronaldo has always acted in good faith in this matter, as the fact that he has never been involved in any conflict with the Tax Authorities from any country where he has lived clearly shows."
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