Gambling Scandal Hits Italian Football Stars
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20 Oct 2023 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Fagioli, Tonali, and Zaniolo Involved in Illegal Betting
Three prominent Italian football players, Nicolo Fagioli, Sandro Tonali, and Nicolò Zaniolo, find themselves in the midst of a storm after being involved in a growing gambling scandal gripping Italian footballers.
Fagioli in trouble
22-year-old Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli is under investigation for alleged illegal gambling activities. He is said to have used multiple profiles to bet on illegal gambling platforms. This scandal once again casts a shadow over Juventus, which had previously dealt with controversies involving former players such as Paul Pogba and Leonardo Bonucci. The Italian Football Federation is examining the case, with Fagioli facing a suspension of up to 3 years and a fine of 25,000 euros.
Gambling Affair Expands to Tonali and Zaniolo
The gambling scandal is escalating with the involvement of two other Italian footballers, Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Zaniolo. Both players were interrogated by Italian police officers and have since left the national team to return to their respective clubs, Newcastle and Aston Villa. There are suspicions that Fagioli had placed bets on football matches, which could lead to a 3-year suspension. Zaniolo is linked to bets on his own matches during his spell at AS Roma. Coach Luciano Spalletti had called up AS Roma forward Stephan El Shaarawy to fill the void left by the duo’s departure from the squad.
Update: Fagioli Penalized for Gambling, Tonali and Zaniolo Still in Limbo
Nicolo Fagioli was sentenced to a 7-month suspension, a fine of 12,500 euros, therapy, and public appearances where he shares his experiences and helps others. Fagioli apologised for his mistakes and criticised the media for spreading lies about him. Meanwhile, there is still no decision regarding the penalties for Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo.
This growing scandal casts a shadow over Italian football and leaves fans in suspense about the future of these talented players.