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Brazil: Palmeiras' (fallen?) idol Ademir da Guia involved in fraud [Sun Sep 18th, 2005]
The biggest idol in the history of São Paulo’s Italo-Brazilian club has had his name smeared by accusations of direct involvement in wage fraud. The retired midfield magician is now involved in city politics, being a member of the ‘Câmara Municipal de São Paulo’ or São Paulo City Hall.
Ademir da Guia is accused of raking in part of his teams’ salaries for his own personal use, although his office has issued a statement denying all allegations. The ex-player has been receiving a salary of R$7,000 (equivalent to that of a middle class manager).
His staff, incensed at the thought that the socialist councillor has been ripping them off, have promised to lodge a formal complaint with internal affairs councillor Vadih Mutran. In the case of prosecution, da Guia could face up to a year in jail.
Many Palmeirenses are shocked at the accusations, and prefer to wait for their idol to come forward and make his position clear. Emerson Leão, current Verdão coach, is amongst those who want to see their idol’s name cleared and avoid any pall settling over the Palestra Italia.
Aaron Marcus
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