In a shocking turn of events, former Everton player, Li Tie, has been handed a life sentence in his native country, China, for his involvement in a corruption scandal. The 46-year-old confessed on national television to paying approximately £330,000 to secure a management position within the Chinese national football team. Furthermore, he admitted to partaking in match-fixing schemes to ensure promotions for the clubs he played for in China.

Following his departure as the manager of the Chinese national team, the Chinese public prosecutor accused Li of both accepting and offering bribes, leading to his severe sentencing. Li Tie, who managed the China national team from 2019 to 2021, had a brief playing career in England, making 40 appearances for Everton over four seasons from 2002 to 2006, along with a stint at Sheffield United.

This development comes amidst a broader crackdown on corruption within Chinese football, underscoring the authorities’ commitment to rooting out illicit practices in the sport. As Li faces the prospect of spending the remainder of his days behind bars, his fall from grace serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unethical behavior in the realm of professional sports.