Reports: McKennie among players in gambling probe

Reports: McKennie among players in gambling probe

Weston McKennie Among Players in Italian Gambling Investigation

Apr 12, 2025, 02:02 PM ET

MILAN — The world of soccer is no stranger to drama, but the latest headlines have taken a turn towards the unexpected. United States midfielder Weston McKennie finds himself in the spotlight for reasons off the pitch. According to widespread media reports, McKennie is among 13 soccer players being investigated for illegal online betting in Italy. This revelation has sent ripples through the soccer community, raising questions and eyebrows alike.

The investigation, spearheaded by Milan prosecutors, is not without precedent. It stems from evidence provided by Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Fagioli back in 2023. Both players, after agreeing to plea bargains, served lengthy bans that ruled them out for most of last season. Their agreements also included therapy for a gambling addiction, highlighting the personal struggles behind the public scandal.

Fagioli, a Juventus midfielder currently on loan at Fiorentina, was banned for seven months after admitting to betting on matches. Meanwhile, Newcastle’s Tonali received a longer suspension of 10 months as his bets included his team’s games during his time at AC Milan. These suspensions were significant, not just for their length but for the message they sent about the seriousness of the offenses.

Now, the duo’s names have resurfaced in the new investigation, alongside McKennie and nine other current or former Serie A players, as well as Leeds defender Junior Firpo. The scope of the investigation is broad, but it’s important to note that there is no evidence that the other players gambled on soccer matches. Their names emerged from depositions given by Tonali and Fagioli and analysis of their devices.

The crux of the investigation lies in the use of illegal platforms for online poker and betting on other sports. While this might sound less severe than betting on soccer matches, it still carries consequences. The players involved do not risk a ban but instead face a maximum fine of 250 euros ($284) from Italian authorities. It’s a slap on the wrist compared to the bans handed out to Tonali and Fagioli, but it underscores the ongoing issue of gambling within the sport.

Adding another layer to the story, Tonali and Fagioli have been accused of promoting these illegal sites among their teammates and other soccer players. Fagioli, in a deposition, admitted to pointing out illegal sites to former Aston Villa forward Nicolò Zaniolo, where he could make online bets on roulette or poker. Fagioli revealed that the organizers of the sites promised him advantages if he brought in other bettors. A message found on Fagioli’s phone even said: “Bravo, capture him, work for me.”

  • Weston McKennie is among 13 players under investigation.
  • The investigation is based on evidence from Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Fagioli.
  • Players are accused of using illegal platforms for online betting.
  • Maximum fine for involved players is 250 euros ($284).
  • Tonali and Fagioli accused of promoting illegal sites.

As the investigation unfolds, the soccer world watches closely. The implications of this probe could extend beyond fines and suspensions, potentially affecting the reputations and careers of those involved. For fans and players alike, it’s a reminder of the challenges and temptations that exist off the field, and the importance of maintaining integrity in the sport.

Original source article rewritten by our AI can be read here.
Originally Written by: Associated Press

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