Ex-Manchester City star David Silva under investigation in luxury watch probe
Former Manchester City footballer David Silva, who is from Gran Canaria, has become the latest high-profile name linked to an ongoing judicial investigation into the alleged purchase of smuggled luxury watches.
The retired midfielder is reportedly under investigation by a judge in Andorra over claims he bought high-end timepieces that may have entered the country without proper tax declarations.
According to reports, Silva is suspected of purchasing four Patek Philippe watches between 2020 and 2021, with a combined value of around €295,000. These transactions have led to his formal implication in the case.
The wider investigation involves several other well-known international footballers who have played in Spain, and England, including Santi Cazorla (ex-Arsenal), Juan Bernat (ex-PSG), César Azpilicueta (ex-Chelsea), Giovani Lo Celso (ex-Spurs) and Thomas Partey (ex-Arsenal).
Authorities are examining whether luxury watches were allegedly bought, transported and delivered without correctly declaring their importation, potentially avoiding necessary tax payments.
Tax issues raised during spell in Spain
In Silva’s case, complications reportedly arose following an intervention by Spain’s Agencia Tributaria.
In December 2020, while playing for Real Sociedad, Silva allegedly bought a watch valued at €120,000 from an Andorran company linked to a businessman under investigation.
He was later notified of outstanding IVA (VAT) payments amounting to €25,200, plus interest.
Agreement reached—but questions remain
In March 2022, Silva and the Andorran company are said to have reached an agreement under which the firm accepted responsibility for paying the VAT and any related tax penalties.
However, the Andorran judge leading the case is now seeking to question all players involved, including Silva, to determine whether there was a deliberate scheme to move luxury watches between Spain and Andorra while avoiding taxes.
Investigators are also examining whether undeclared income linked to these transactions may have been used to purchase high-end luxury cars. The case remains ongoing, and no formal charges have yet been confirmed.
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