Juventus midfielder and U.S. Men’s National Team star Weston McKennie has been named among a group of 12 current and former Serie A players reportedly under investigation by Italian authorities for alleged involvement in illegal online gambling. The sweeping probe, led by prosecutors in Milan, has sent shockwaves through Italian football and could have disciplinary implications for some of the league’s most recognizable names.

The investigation focuses on unauthorized gambling activities conducted between 2021 and 2023. Players are suspected of placing bets on poker and other sports excluding football using unlicensed online platforms. Italian prosecutors allege that a clandestine network of gambling operators facilitated these activities through illegal websites, which fall outside Italy’s tightly regulated betting framework.

Among the high-profile names linked to the investigation are Ángel Di María, Leandro Paredes, Alessandro Florenzi, and Mattia Perin. Notably, previously suspended players Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Fagioli both disciplined in 2023 for similar offenses are now under renewed scrutiny. Authorities believe Tonali and Fagioli may have acted as intermediaries, recruiting other players into the illicit betting network.

In a curious twist, the investigation revealed that some of the players allegedly used a Milan jewelry store to settle gambling debts. According to reports, they purchased high-end luxury watches using traceable bank transfers, but the items never left the shop. This method was allegedly used to mask financial transactions and avoid detection by tax and gaming regulators.

While no arrests have been made among the players, five individuals who ran the illegal betting operations have been placed under house arrest. Italian authorities have seized approximately €1.5 million in assets tied to the operation. From a criminal justice perspective, the players are not expected to face jail time. Legal experts suggest they may be allowed to settle the case by paying administrative fines.

However, the sporting implications could be more severe. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has opened a parallel review of the case and could impose disciplinary sanctions, including fines or suspensions, if violations of the sport's integrity rules are confirmed.

Weston McKennie, who remains an integral part of both Juventus and the USMNT setup, has not commented publicly on the investigation. His status for future club and international competitions may depend on the outcome of the FIGC’s review. Juventus, meanwhile, has declined to issue a statement pending further developments.

This latest scandal adds to growing concerns about the intersection of professional football and gambling, particularly as the global betting market continues to expand. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Italy's top league and on some of its brightest stars.