One of soccer’s most powerful figures is facing legal troubles back home—but insists he has nothing to hide.
One of soccer’s most powerful figures is facing legal troubles back home—but insists he has nothing to hide. Jorge Mendes, widely considered the most influential agents, is under intense scrutiny in his native Portugal after being formally accused of ’massive’ tax fraud. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Mendes has signaled his intent to pay the full amount demanded by Portuguese authorities—raising eyebrows across the soccer world.
The case stems not from his dealings in soccer transfers, but from a complex personal financial transaction involving his wife, Sandra Mendes. The accusations come as part of a wider investigation under the “Offside” and “Fora de Jogo” operations, which have sought to crack down on financial irregularities among high-profile Portuguese figures.
According to reports from Correio da Manha and The Times, prosecutors allege that Mendes simulated a donation of nearly half the capital of one of his companies to his wife, who held the assets in a business registered in Amsterdam. That company was then acquired by another entity linked to Mendes, which authorities believe was part of an effort to evade dividend taxes in Portugal.
The Public Prosecutor claims the maneuver caused an estimated €18 million ($20.4m) loss to the Portuguese state. Mendes, however, insists that the transaction was legitimate, fairly valued, and reported to tax authorities as far back as 2014.
What did Jorge Mendes say?
Despite agreeing to pay the full amount, Mendes has issued a firm denial of guilt through his legal team. In a statement to Portuguese media, lawyer Rui Patricio de Morais Leitao defended the agent’s character and financial history:
“We strongly refute this accusation, because there was no tax fraud. The accusation is incorrect and unfounded; and it is unfair, both in and of itself and also considering Jorge Mendes’ life story and the contributions he has made to the country.”
“It should be noted that the matter in question had already been analysed by the Tax Administration in 2014… and for many years, no issue was ever raised regarding these facts. However, this being the first time (in March 2025) that TA has concluded that the tax is due… Jorge Mendes intends to pay the amount in question.”
In other words, Mendes maintains his innocence, but is opting to pay the full sum to avoid further legal entanglement—perhaps a strategic decision, as he continues to represent some of the world’s brightest soccer talents.
Mendes’ reach still unrivaled
Though the case is not connected to his agency work, the headlines are a rare blemish on the reputation of a man whose name has become synonymous with mega deals. Mendes is best known as Cristiano Ronaldo’s former long-time agent, playing a central role in his moves to Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He was also instrumental in the careers of Jose Mourinho, Joao Felix, Angel Di María, and many others.
Currently, Mendes represents Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s 17-year-old prodigy and one of the most exciting young players in the world. His agency, Gestifute, also manages Alejandro Balde and Ansu Fati, maintaining deep ties to the Catalan giants.
