Nicolò Fagioli explains he was ‘looking for dopamine without knowing it’ and started gambling because he was feeling alone.

Fagioli spoke during a meeting with psychologists and students in Turin on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, explaining how he started gambling when he was only 16 years old.

“I started [gambling] when I was 16, it was like a game, but it slowly became a disease. I started sports betting when I was in Juventus‘ youth sector,” he said.

“Before losing control, I liked to gamble. I was looking for dopamine without knowing it. Then I realised it was a disease, but it took too long to seek help. Luckily I did it in May. I couldn’t sleep at night. I spent so much time on the phone, with calls and messages. I asked for help because I had hit rock bottom.

“In the beginning, you think you know more, but then you realise that being a footballer gives no advantage. I don’t know why I started. Maybe because I was feeling lonely and I was far from home.”

Read every word Fagioli said during his latest public appearance here.