Former Everton midfielder Li Tie has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for corruption. The 47-year-old former China national team coach admitted to taking bribes and fixing matches between 2015 and 2021. The charges are part of a broader crackdown on corruption in Chinese football.
Li Tie, a former Everton midfielder, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison on corruption charges. The 47-year-old, who represented China at the 2002 World Cup, was found guilty of accepting and giving bribes, as well as fixing matches between 2015 and 2021. Chinese state media reported that the bribes amounted to over $16 million (£12.7 million) and were given to favor specific players for selection and influence game outcomes.
Li’s conviction is part of a broader crackdown on corruption in Chinese football, with several coaches and players under investigation. After retiring from playing in 2011, Li transitioned into coaching, taking on roles with Hebei China Fortune and later serving as head coach of the Chinese national team. His corruption activities took place during his managerial tenure, particularly between 2015 and 2021. In an apology aired on CCTV, Li admitted his wrongdoings, stating that at the time, such practices were seen as common in football.
Li's case follows the sentencing of former Chinese Football Association president, Chen Xuyuan, who received a life sentence for taking bribes. Li began his career in China with Liaoning, later moving to Everton in the Premier League after China’s 2002 World Cup appearance. His stint with Everton saw him make 33 appearances in his first season, but injuries limited his time on the field in later years. He moved back to China in 2008 after a brief period with Sheffield United.
