Banned Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli opened up about his gambling addiction to around 300 students, explaining his issue and work to fight it.
The 23-year-old Italian midfielder has been suspended since October after admitting to placing countless bets on football matches that didn’t involve his teams, being handed a seven-month suspension. He’ll be allowed to return to football after May 25th.
Fagioli has been treated for gambling addiction since his suspension and has worked closely with doctors and Juventus ahead of his return to action. He was given a new contract by the club, keeping him in Turin to June 2028.
Fagioli opens up
Speaking at the Majorana Technical Institute in Grugliasco via TMW, Fagioli was honest when discussing his situation to the 300 students gathered.
“I regret what I did. Juventus were very close to me. Everyone, the club, the coach and my teammates.
“How did they take it? Well, obviously they weren’t happy. But they helped me on my journey. The club knows that I’ve understood my mistakes. We all have to learn and start again.”
He was not willing to discuss how much he gambled in total, but admitted to losing around €5000 on a single bet.
“I earn well and I bet a lot. But anyone who earns €1200 a month and gambles €1000 has the same addiction as me.”
Doctor Luciana Monte from the Addictions Pathology Department also took part in the talk, discussing Fagioli’s situation.
“Nicolò fell ill with an illness, underwent a health program and is now in remission. These meetings are very useful for the kids. Fagioli conveyed closeness, humanity and humility.”