– Cheers and jeers –
Dozens of photographers and onlookers crowded behind metal barriers and a line of police that guarded the entrance of the court to catch a glimpse of the player for the hearing.
Most applauded but some jeered and criticised the player.
“If he cheated, he has to be sentenced no matter how much of an idol and Ballon d’Or winner he is. These are four million euros less to pay for hospitals, schools, firefighters, roads,” Jose Seco de Herrero, 25, told AFP.
“Thief!,” yelled out one onlooker. “Go play in Panama,” cried out another.
The tax fraud trial comes at a time of simmering voter anger over steep government cuts to health and social spending, as the government struggles to bring Spain’s public deficit down.
“On the pitch he is the best, but if they have to try him and sentence him they should do it, even if he is a footballer and is known around the world,” said Eric Irias, 25, who came to the court wearing a Barcelona jersey which he bought a day earlier.
Messi and his father will not attend the fourth and final day of the trial on Friday when lawyers will make their closing arguments.
The player is set to jet off after his court appearance to the United States where Argentina take on Copa America defending champions Chile in their first game of the tournament in California on Monday.
No date was set for when the court will issue its ruling.
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