Samir Nasri ‘taken into custody’ and held for 10 hours over alleged money laundering case | Football | Sport

Samir Nasri was reportedly held by police over a money laundering case involving alleged organised drug traffickers. The former Arsenal and Manchester City midfielder was questioned at the offices of the Financial Investigation and Research Brigade (BRIF) of the Paris judicial police, according to Le Parisien.

It’s claimed Nasri remained in custody for around 10 hours before being released on Thursday evening, without charges being filed at this stage. It was said to have been part of alleged ties to Hakim Berrebouh, a convicted drug trafficker imprisoned since 2021, and his right-hand man, Olivier Sabbah.

The report adds that Nasri was specifically questioned over money laundering. His alleged ties are said to relate to one of his activities as a former shareholder of the nightclub XS in Ivry-sur-Seine, Val-de-Marne.

Nasri grew up in Marseille and came through the ranks at his hometown club as a youngster before joining Arsenal in 2008.

He spent three seasons at the Emirates Stadium, initially becoming a fan favourite before a controversial transfer to Manchester City.

Over a decade later, Nasri still hasn’t been forgiven by many Arsenal fans, who were left incensed at the manner of his exit.

He stayed at the Etihad Stadium until 2017, making 129 appearances for City and winning two Premier League titles before joining Sevilla on loan and securing a permanent move to Turkish club Antalyaspor.

Nasri also played for West Ham United and Anderlecht before hanging up his boots in 2020.

Speaking at the time, he said: “What bothered me was that they insulted my mother, even though, well, you’ve qualified for a final, you celebrate with your players.

“It’s not the first time I’ve been insulted in a stadium, and it certainly won’t be the last. And if I let it get to me, I’d quit TV, and I’d quit going to matches.”