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FC Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi could be “banned” from facing Premier League clubs in England amidst the uncertain political climate in the United Kingdom.
In the event of Brexit, Messi could be unable to face English clubs in the Uefa Champions League in the near future, this after being convicted of tax fraud in Spain.
With the five-time Ballon d’Or winner holding a 21-month suspended prison sentence from Spanish court rulings, he could be blocked from entering the country — with the Brittain poised to break away from the European Union.
Immigration lawyer Andrew Osbourne of firm Lewis Silkin, told the Atheltic; “There is a specific point around European games.
“If you are an EU citizen with a criminal conviction, you can travel to the UK, as long as you are not deemed to be a threat to national security.
“If you are not an EU citizen and have a conviction or prison sentence imposed — even if suspended — you are banned from coming to the UK.
“There are a number of very famous footballers with convictions and suspended sentences for tax evasion. They, thus far, have not had to worry as they have EU passports.”
Online Reporter