Former Liverpool star Djibril Cissé faces legal battle over tax evasion
Former Liverpool striker Djibril Cissé is embroiled in a legal battle after being found guilty of tax evasion in France. The 43-year-old, who played two seasons at Anfield and helped Liverpool win the UEFA Champions League in 2005, has been handed a one-year suspended prison sentence and fined ₦185.3 million (£85,000).
The charges stem from allegations that Cissé, who now works as a DJ and football pundit, owes ₦1.4 billion (£660,000) in unpaid taxes. According to French media outlet Le Parisien, prosecutors argued that Cissé failed to declare a debt of ₦1.013 billion (£465,000) connected to a financial account set up to handle his tax obligations. Additionally, he is accused of not reporting ₦425.1 million (£195,000) in VAT revenue from his image rights.
Cissé’s lawyer, Malcolm Mouldaia, defended the former France international, claiming that he was misled by his accountants, who mishandled his finances and failed to keep him properly informed. Mouldaia stressed that there was no evidence of money laundering or deliberate tax fraud.
The court hearing took place in Bastia without Cissé’s presence, and a final verdict is expected on November 13.
Cissé’s career has seen both highs and lows. After joining Liverpool from Auxerre in 2004 for £14 million, he became a fan favorite, scoring 24 goals in 82 appearances and winning both the Champions League and FA Cup. His career continued with stints at clubs like Marseille, Sunderland, and Queens Park Rangers, as well as playing in leagues across Europe, Qatar, and Russia.
Though Cissé transitioned from football to a new career as a DJ and commentator, his financial difficulties have brought him back into the headlines, with this latest tax case adding to his list of legal challenges.
