Costa Rican soccer star Keylor Navas recently made headlines, not for his athletic prowess but due to serious allegations made against him. Known for his remarkable career as a goalkeeper, including a significant stint at Paris Saint-Germain and over a decade with the Costa Rican national team, Navas now faces accusations that have prompted a swift legal response.
According to reports from BFM TV, a French media outlet, a former employee has accused Navas of employment malpractices, including off-the-books work without proper social security, excessive hours up to 90 per week for a flat rate of 3,200 euros monthly, paid in cash. This former assistant, who also handled maintenance duties, claims his working conditions were far from standard; he alleges Navas insisted on operating outside French labor laws, encapsulated by Navas’s own words in a recorded video: “Here we do not work with French laws.”
This accusation surfaced right after Navas announced his departure from both Paris Saint-Germain and the Costa Rican national team—an unexpected move given the proximity to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The former employee has taken his grievances to the Versailles Prosecutor’s Office, outlining not only the alleged irregular payment and employment terms but also claiming he was coerced into being armed and housed in subpar conditions, specifically a damp, windowless basement.
Navas has vehemently denied these allegations, describing them as “false, unfounded, and very serious.” He has engaged legal counsel to tackle these claims head-on, signaling a potentially lengthy legal battle ahead. His statement highlights the impact of these accusations on both his personal life and professional reputation, suggesting a robust defense is forthcoming.
While these legal proceedings unfold, Navas’s future in professional soccer remains uncertain. Rumors link him to potential clubs, including those in Liga MX, yet nothing has been confirmed. His recent arrival in Costa Rica, as verified by the press office of Migration and Foreign Affairs, underscores a period of transition and reflection for the seasoned goalkeeper.
This case not only captivates those following Navas’s career but also those interested in the intersections of sports, law, and personal integrity. As the legal drama continues to develop, the sports world watches closely, aware that the outcome could significantly impact the legacy of one of football’s most respected figures.