USMNT’s McKennie and Argentina’s Di Maria, Paredes Caught in Italian Betting Scandal

Italian authorities have launched a new investigation into illegal online gambling, revealing that at least twelve Serie A players were involved between 2021 and 2023. CBS reports that the list includes Weston McKennie of the USMNT and Juventus, Argentina’s Leandro Paredes, and veteran winger Ángel Di María, all of whom allegedly used unauthorized betting platforms during that period.

According to Corriere della Sera, the players in question are not accused of betting on football, but rather of participating in illegal poker and online gambling platforms. Prosecutors have identified the operation’s link to a Serie D referee tied to the family of Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, who was previously suspended in a related scandal. The current probe focuses primarily on gambling behavior, with only Tonali and Fagioli facing allegations of promoting such activities.

The investigation uncovered that players settled their debts by wiring money to a Milan jewelry store, disguising payments as luxury watch purchases. The store, however, retained the items, while issuing invoices to simulate legitimate transactions. The players, in effect, never took possession of the merchandise, and the money went to the platform’s operators, Tommaso De Giacomo and Patrick Fizzera, with support from three store managers.

While criminal liability appears minimal—likely resulting in fines—the sports consequences could be more serious. The Milan prosecutor’s office has forwarded all case files to the Italian FA’s federal prosecutor for review, opening the door to potential suspensions. CBS Sports emphasized that with McKennie’s growing role in the USMNT’s build-up to the 2026 World Cup, his involvement could have broader implications for the American team’s public image and internal discipline.