Capello faces tax probe
Wednesday, 16 Jan 2008 17:12
Fabio Capello faces tax probe in Italy
Reports in Italy suggest England coach Fabio Capello is set to be investigated by tax fraud prosecutors over his earnings while in charge of Juventus.
However the Football Association has been assured by Capello, who was at the Stadio delle Alpi between 2004 and 2006, and advisors to him that the 61-year-old's finances are in order.
Juventus were stripped of their Serie A title following an investigation into match-fixing in Italy.
And the current probe, which is said to be wide-ranging and is not specific to the England manager, is related to that controversy.
Capello himself said: "With my advisors, I have always endeavoured to conduct my financial business with integrity.
"I have assured the FA today that my finances are in order and that I am not aware of any matters which would be of concern.
"I understand that these inquiries in Italy are part of a wider investigation into the finances of many high-profile individuals."
Pier Filippo Capello, the England boss' son and agent, said: "This is not an investigation. It is merely to ascertain some facts.
"We know about it but it is merely an offshoot of the Calciopoli, football bribery, investigation."
A spokesman for the FA added: "It is our understanding that the Italian tax authorities are currently following a procedure of looking into the finances of a number of high-profile individuals - particularly in sport.
"We have spoken to Fabio and his advisors about today's newspaper reports in Italy and they have explained the facts.
"They have also given us their assurances that Fabio Capello's tax payments are in order.
"The FA have no further comment to make on this subject."
Capello officially took charge of the England national side just over a week ago after being unveiled as Steve McClaren's successor before Christmas.
He has since been to Zagreb to arrange England's fixture list for the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign and will preside over his first match against Switzerland at Wembley on February 6th.