Milan – A new shock is sweeping through the world of Italian football. The investigation conducted by the Milan Public Prosecutor's Office into a vast network of clandestine online betting involves one dozen footballers, some of whom play or have played in the top division.
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The accusation: having bet on illegal platforms not authorized by the Customs and Monopolies Agency. The episodes, according to initial rumors, they would not concern football matches, but gambling like poker and other online tables.
Among the most well-known names registered in the register of suspects, those of stand out: Nicolo Fagioli, Sandro Tonali, Nicolo Zaniolo, Weston McKennie, Raoul Bellanova e Angel Di Maria. Next to them, there also appear Matthias Perin, Alessandro Florenzi, Samuel Ricci, Leandro Paredes and others, involved in various capacities in the investigation.
For some, the accusation is aggravated by the fact that they advertised illegal platforms among colleagues and acquaintances, contributing to the spread of the phenomenon in the football world. The documents of the investigation, which refer to events that occurred up to 2023, are being examined by the prosecutor's office, which is reconstructing the circle of interests and any individual responsibilities.
A Dangerous Fever: The Dark Side of Professionalism
The case raises disturbing questions about the fragility of the football system, where even high-level athletes, millionaires and apparently immune to temptations, end up sucked into the vortex of illegal gambling. It is not just a criminal or regulatory issue: it is a cultural problem.
In an environment where performance stress, media pressure and the cult of competition are the order of the day, gambling becomes an escape route, often underestimated, sometimes silenced. The phenomenon brings to mind other sensational cases in recent years, which have already shaken the credibility of Italian football.
La recurrence of certain behaviors, combined with the apparent carelessness with which some players have advertised illegal sites, raises a deeper question: What tools does football have today to educate its protagonists to a responsibility that is not only sporting, but also ethical and legal?
A strong response is needed
Italian football can no longer limit itself to episodic responses. A serious preventive system is needed, starting from the youth teams and involving clubs, federations and institutions. Because behind every player there is an example for thousands of young fans. And if the example is that of those seeks the thrill of risk off the pitch, breaking the rules, the entire sport is defeated.
Article published on 11 April 2025 - 11:59
The topic is very delicate and in my opinion more attention should be paid to these issues. Players should be aware of the consequences of their actions and that their image greatly influences young people. It is essential to educate them.