Former Everton midfielder Li Tie has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for accepting more than £12 million in bribes during his time as a football coach.
The 47-year-old, who became famous for representing China in their only World Cup appearance in 2002, admitted to both receiving and giving bribes, as well as fixing matches between 2015 and 2021.
The conviction is part of a wider crackdown on corruption in Chinese football, with several other coaches and players currently under investigation.
Li’s legal issues began after he retired from playing in 2011 and moved into coaching. He took his first managerial role with Hebei China Fortune in 2015, before becoming the head coach of China’s national team.
During his time as national coach, he replaced Marcello Lippi on an interim basis and later took over the role permanently.
According to Chinese state media, Li accepted bribes totaling more than $16 million (£12.7 million) between 2015 and 2021.
The bribes were reportedly given to ensure the selection of certain players for matches and to influence the outcomes of games.
In an emotional documentary aired earlier this year on CCTV, Li expressed deep regret for his actions. “I’m very sorry,” he said, adding that he should have followed the right path.
“There were certain things that at the time were common practices in football.”
READ ALSO: Pep Guardiola Confronts Fan in Shocking Street Altercation
The news of Li’s sentencing follows the conviction of former Chinese Football Association president Chen Xuyuan, who was sentenced to life in prison for accepting bribes.
Li’s case serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against corruption in Chinese football.
Li began his football career with Liaoning in China, before securing a loan move to Everton in 2002 after impressing at the World Cup.
He made 33 appearances in his first season with the club, helping Everton finish seventh in the Premier League.
Despite injuries limiting his later years, he stayed with the club until 2006 before joining Sheffield United. He returned to China in 2008 after making only one competitive appearance for the Blades.