MILAN — U.S. international Weston McKennie is one of 13 footballers being investigated in Italy for using illegal online betting platforms, according to widespread reports.
The probe — led by Milan prosecutors — has grown from testimony given by Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Fagioli last year, both of whom admitted to gambling offenses and served lengthy bans.
🔎 Who’s Involved
- Weston McKennie (Juventus midfielder, U.S. international)
- Junior Firpo (Leeds United)
- Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United, ex-AC Milan)
- Nicolò Fagioli (Fiorentina on loan from Juventus)
- Plus 9 other current or former Serie A players
⚖️ What They’re Being Investigated For
- Using unauthorized gambling platforms to place online bets
- No current evidence they bet on soccer matches
- Max penalty: €250 fine (~$284), no suspension expected
📱 What Sparked the Probe
Authorities reportedly discovered player names during:
- Tonali and Fagioli’s depositions in 2023
- Digital forensic analysis of their phones/devices
Fagioli also told investigators he referred teammates to illegal betting sites, revealing a message where site organizers promised him incentives for bringing others onboard:
🗣️ “Bravo, capture him, work for me,” one message about Nicolò Zaniolo reportedly said.
⛔️ Previous Sanctions
- Fagioli: 7-month ban (betting, but not on his team)
- Tonali: 10-month ban (included betting on AC Milan matches)
Both players agreed to therapy and awareness campaigns as part of plea deals.
🇺🇸 What It Means for McKennie
While McKennie’s name appears in the investigation, current reporting suggests:
- No bets on football
- No major disciplinary risk
- No suspension expected
- He faces, at most, a modest fine
⚠️ The Bigger Picture
This scandal has exposed how widespread gambling issues are within Italian football. Authorities now appear focused on rooting out the networks, especially those operating illegally and incentivizing referrals.
With the summer international window approaching and Juventus battling for European qualification, the timing is delicate for McKennie — though no direct consequences are on the table for now.
