Family Members of Young Brazilian Football Players Scammed in Spain with the Guarantee of Becoming Stars

In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Spanish National Police have uncovered two criminal rings that have allegedly scammed numerous families, predominantly from Brazil, with false promises of turning their sons into professional footballers. The announcement was made on Tuesday, and it sent shockwaves through the global football community.

According to the authorities, the gangs operated football schools that targeted young, talented players from well-off families with the prospect of transforming them into “star professional players.” The families were required to pay an initial fee of over €5,000 and monthly payments of up to €1,700 per player. The money allegedly covered tuition fees, food, housing, and the necessary paperwork for a residency permit.

However, what the families did not realize was that they were being taken for a ride. The two gangs, which operated independently, would lure the youths with false expectations, promising them a path to stardom in the world of football. Sadly, the reality was far from what was promised. The youths “lived in houses provided by the clubs in cramped conditions, with little food, and none of them managed to get legal residency” in Spain. Instead of being nurtured and trained to become top footballers, they were left to languish in sub-standard living conditions, with little hope for a brighter future.

Police suspect that around 70 youths, mostly Brazilian and aged between 16 and 23, were recruited by the two gangs. The investigation began after a player recruited by one of the rings filed a complaint. It is a sad and disheartening tale, one that has exposed the ugly underbelly of the football world. These criminal gangs have not only shattered the dreams of these young, talented players but have also caused immense heartache and financial loss to their families.

The Spanish National Police must be commended for their efforts in uncovering these criminal rings and bringing the culprits to justice. The arrests of 11 individuals belonging to the two gangs, and the ongoing investigations into two others, will go a long way in sending a strong message to those who seek to exploit vulnerable individuals for their own gain.

The world of football must take note of this incident and take steps to ensure that young players are not taken advantage of by unscrupulous individuals or organisations. The dreams of these young players should not be exploited for financial gain. Instead, they must be nurtured and given every opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential.