Ex-Man City Goalkeeper Eike Immel Sentenced Two Years Prison for Fraud

Eike Immel, former Manchester City and Germany goalkeeper, has been sentenced to two years and two months in prison for 107 cases of fraud involving approximately £29,775. The offenses included borrowing money without repayment and selling European Championship tickets without delivering them. Immel, who made 43 appearances for Manchester City and was part of Germany's 1980 European Championship-winning squad, declared bankruptcy in 2008 and has since struggled financially, living off benefits in recent years. His defense emphasized his financial difficulties and stated that he is not a professional fraudster but a 'failed former footballer' deeply ashamed of the situation. Immel's post-retirement life has been marked by financial hardships, including a significant tax bill and personal struggles. Despite his successful football career, including nearly 550 Bundesliga appearances and 19 caps for West Germany, Immel's current legal and financial troubles have overshadowed his legacy.