Did they, didn't they - that is the question. For me, there is no other conclusion than these players camps are as guilty as OJ of tax evasion. Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Jose Mourinho plus numerous others have been charged and have predictably denied any wrongdoing. 

What prompts a footballer making €300,000 per week to commit tax evasion? Do they actually need the extra €14 million per annum on top of their astronomical salaries and stupendous endorsements? Well, ultimately it's a lack of education and a reliance on 'professionals' to do the job which creates the uncomfortable position of being ordered to deny any crime with conviction. Footballers are footballers and their purpose is to entertain the masses through the brilliance of their feet. The aforementioned players perform this duty to aplomb.  

To file taxes is not their job therefore I do not classify them guilty for fraudulent activity. What I do charge them guilty of is not having a mind of their own to investigate the matter and determine for themselves whether their people committed a crime.  Running away from a problem isn't going to resolve a predicament but rather cause greater consternation to all involved. 

Ultimately it comes down to dealing with your own shit and fighting through adversity with self-respect. What drives me up the wall with professional footballers these days is the over-reliance on external sources to perform the majority of their obligations outside of the football pitch. I'm not saying that delegation should be disregarded but rather that basic understanding of their interests should be obvious.

A basic understanding of all interests you behold should be the cornerstone of your philosophy. To neglect an attempt in understanding is a bigger issue than most crimes committed.