Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo have been questioned by police at Italy’s Coverciano training base as part of an investigation into illegal digital betting platforms. Both players have been granted leave from international duty as Italy prepare to face Malta in Bari tomorrow night and England at Wembley next Tuesday.
The Italian Football Association (FICG) released a statement confirming the investigations into Tonali and Zaniolo. The statement read, “The Federation announces that this afternoon the Turin Public Prosecutor’s Office has conducted investigations into players, Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Zaniolo, who are currently training with the national team at the Coverciano Federal Training Centre. Regardless of the nature of the events, considering that the two players are not in the necessary condition to face the matches scheduled for the next few days, the Federation has decided, also for their protection, to allow them to return to their respective clubs.”
This development comes after La Stampa published a story revealing that Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli is also under investigation as part of a probe by the Turin flying squad into unlicensed betting platforms. In Italy, gambling is legal as long as bets are placed on platforms recognized by the Customs and Monopolies agencies. Any other form of gambling is punishable by a three-month sentence or a fine ranging from €51,000 to €516,000.
Fagioli had informed the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) about the investigation on August 30, and the FIGC has initiated ongoing proceedings into the case. Fagioli’s lawyers have stated that he remains calm and entirely focused on Juventus and the league. The player has already made six appearances for Juventus in Serie A this season, following his 37 first-team appearances in the previous season.
Juventus declined to comment when approached by The Athletic regarding Fagioli’s investigation. However, Article 24 of the FIGC’s sporting justice code explicitly prohibits players from placing or taking bets on events organized by the FIGC, FIFA, and UEFA. Violating this rule can result in a three-year ban and a minimum fine of €25,000.
The investigations into Tonali, Zaniolo, and Fagioli highlight the seriousness with which Italian authorities are tackling illegal gambling activities. The involvement of professional football players in such activities can have severe consequences for both the individuals involved and their respective clubs.
Aston Villa and Newcastle United have been contacted for comment regarding the situation. It remains to be seen how these investigations will impact the players’ careers and their future participation in international and club competitions.
Illegal gambling has long been a concern in the world of sports, with various governing bodies implementing strict regulations to combat this issue. The involvement of high-profile players like Tonali, Zaniolo, and Fagioli serves as a reminder that no one is immune to the temptations of illegal betting platforms.
As the investigations continue, it is crucial for players, clubs, and football associations to prioritize education and awareness programs to ensure that individuals understand the consequences of engaging in illegal gambling activities. Additionally, stricter monitoring and surveillance measures should be implemented to detect and prevent any potential involvement in such activities.
The reputation of professional football and its integrity are at stake when players are linked to illegal gambling. It is essential for all stakeholders to work together to maintain the trust and credibility of the sport.
In conclusion, the investigations into Sandro Tonali, Nicolo Zaniolo, and Nicolo Fagioli highlight the ongoing battle against illegal gambling in football. The Italian authorities are taking these cases seriously, and it is crucial for players and clubs to understand the consequences of engaging in such activities. By prioritizing education, awareness, and stricter monitoring measures, the football community can work towards preserving the integrity of the sport and protecting its players from the dangers of illegal gambling.