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Five-time World Player of the Year winner Messi, who has been
at Barcelona since the age of 13, was handed a 21-month prison
sentence and fined 2 million euros ($2.25 million) for three
counts of tax fraud between 2007 and 2009.
"The club reiterates, once again, its full support for Leo
Messi, his father Jorge Messi, and his family," a statement on
the club's official website read.
"FC Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu contacted the
player's family to communicate this support.
"The family was very grateful, not only for today's gesture, but
also for the support the player and his family have received
from the club throughout this process. The club will continue to
stand with Leo Messi, his father, and his family."
Argentine international Messi has scored 506 goals in 582 senior
appearances for Barcelona, winning eight league titles and four
Champions League trophies.
(Reporting by Aditi Prakash in Bengaluru)
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