TURIN, Italy (AP) — In his first public phrases since being implicated in a betting scandal, Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli has apologized for a “naive error” but in addition hit out at newspapers for writing what he known as was “garbage.”
The assertion, throughout two Instagram tales posted on Wednesday, got here the day after Fagioli was banned for seven months by the Italian soccer federation for betting violations, and ordered to endure therapy for a playing dependancy.
“I believed I’d begin by apologizing not solely to Juventus followers however to all followers on this planet of soccer and sport for the naive error that I made,” Fagioli wrote.
“However as a substitute I’m obliged to start out with the garbage that newspapers write about me simply to place me in a nasty gentle with hundreds of falsehoods…or perhaps higher, simply to get a pair extra views. I’ll converse quickly.”
His suspension was decreased from the minimal of three years after he admitted betting on soccer matches — however by no means these involving his staff — and got here to a plea discount with the FIGC, co-operating absolutely from the beginning.
The 22-year-old Fagioli, thought of one of many nation’s high younger midfielders, alerted the federation’s prosecutor concerning the case after Turin prosecutors launched a prison investigation.
Italian each day Gazzetta dello Sport carried excerpts from Fagioli’s deposition by Turin prosecutors. He informed them he racked up money owed of just about 3 million euros ($3.17 million) and needed to borrow from teammates after receiving threats that the individuals he owed cash to would “break (his) legs.”
Fagioli mentioned the worst interval was final March and April. He was proven crying on the bench throughout a match at Sassuolo on April 16 after being substituted following a mistake.
“I used to be fascinated by my money owed from betting,” Fagioli added.
Premier League gamers Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo had been questioned by police at Italy’s coaching camp final week and extra Serie A gamers may very well be implicated.
Midfield participant Tonali, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan within the offseason, has admitted to betting on soccer matches and having a playing dependancy — and has already been heard by Turin prosecutors — whereas Aston Villa midfielder Zaniolo mentioned he performed blackjack on an internet site that he was unaware was unlawful, however that he has by no means wager on soccer matches.
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