In a concerning development, another former Manchester United player has encountered legal troubles related to family abandonment. Just two months prior, ex-Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra experienced a significant and very public fall from grace when he was sentenced to 12 months in prison in France. This sentence resulted from his failure to meet his financial obligations to his family, an offense that the French legal system treats with utmost seriousness. French media outlet Le Parisien reports that Evra is accused of owing nearly €1 million in alimony to his ex-wife, Sandra Evra, a debt he has allegedly been avoiding for some time. The court in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris, found him guilty of “abandoning” his former spouse and their two children, now aged 19 and 10.
Evra’s case represents a significant downturn in the life of a once-renowned footballer whose career was filled with achievements. His legal troubles highlight the weight of responsibilities that come with success and the severe consequences of neglecting those responsibilities. The ruling underscores the French legal system’s emphasis on the duty of care individuals have towards their families, particularly concerning the welfare of children.
Unfortunately, Evra’s predicament is not an isolated case among former Manchester United players. Recently, another ex-Red Devil, former midfielder Anderson, has also been sentenced to prison for similar reasons. Anderson, who previously played at Old Trafford, now faces imprisonment unless he pays £45,000 in child support for his nine children. The court’s decision was made last week, though it only became public on September 10, 2024. Anderson has been given the option to serve his sentence in a ‘semi-open’ regime, allowing him to work or study outside of prison during the day, but return to the facility at night, according to Brazilian news source GZH.
This new chapter in Anderson’s life adds to a series of controversies. Four years ago, Anderson was involved in a significant legal issue when he was accused of laundering £4.7 million through cryptocurrencies. The Brazilian newspaper Globo reported that he was one of eight individuals under investigation for diverting funds from the state stock exchange. This past allegation, along with his current legal troubles, paints a picture of a troubled post-football career.
The situations of Evra and Anderson illustrate the often difficult transition from professional football to life afterward. Despite their past successes and public acclaim, their current legal and financial challenges threaten to overshadow their achievements. These cases serve as cautionary tales for both current and future footballers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining personal and financial responsibilities even after their playing careers end.
