Celta Vigo Boss Suspects La Liga Match-Fixing

Celta Vigo manager Abel Resino has revealed he suspects the results of La Liga’s end of season matches are regularly fixed, though he has no proof to back up his claims.

There are often rumours of third-party payments, known as “maletines”, being used to decide fixtures in Spanish football. The new LFP President, Javier Tebas, has vowed to eradicate the “cancer” of match-fixing in La Liga.

Anti-corruption authorities in Spain are to investigate Levante’s 4-0 home defeat to Deportivo la Coruna on 13 April. Levante’s players have said they will assist with any investigation.

Resino said: “They tell me that one game from the next round is already bought. But is there anyone who can show it?

“What I believe is that everyone sends up a trial balloon to try and take advantage of the situation. If the LFP are paying attention, then perfect. From there, they must show there are irregularities and take the appropriate measures.”

However, the 53-year-old does not believe there is much incentive in Spain to properly investigate his claims. He said:”Does anyone really believe that, in Spain, they are going to pull off the blanket, as was done before in Italy or other countries? It looks unlikely and difficult to me.”