Multiple outlets are reporting that Union Berlin defender and former Juventus captain Leonardo Bonucci was aware of his former teammate Nicolo Fagioli’s gambling addiction, which could land the 36-year-old in hot water himself.
According to recent reports, Fagioli acknowledged the fact that he has a gambling addiction a few months ago, and had informed Juve and the relevant authorities back in August, well before his name was leaked in the press.
Under investigation, Fagioli was required to hand his phone in to the investigators, which has revealed that some of his former teammates may have known about his addiction.
Originally reported by La Repubblica, Fagioli’s messages revealed that Bonucci was one of at least two colleagues who were aware of the situation, but there is no hard evidence that he was betting himself.
However, failure to report Fagioli’s actions could reportedly still spell trouble for Bonucci.
Calciomercato.com notes that players have an obligation to inform the federal prosecutor’s office if they become aware of a player who has, or is about to gamble illegally. For those who fail to do so, the typical punishment is a six-month ban.
Fagioli, meanwhile, is expected to negotiate a plea bargain with the authorities, which could see a potential three-year suspension reduced by at least half if successful.