Spanish footballer Kike Salas has been arrested over accusations that he intentionally received yellow cards as part of a plan to influence sports betting outcomes.

Kike Salas, a defender for La Liga club Sevilla, was shown 10 yellow cards last season, with seven of them occurring during the final nine matches. Notably, three of these bookings happened late in games – once in the 88th minute and twice in the 94th minute.

The unusual timing and frequency of the yellow cards raised suspicions, leading to accusations that Salas deliberately got himself booked in several matches. According to the Spanish outlet El Confidencial, this was allegedly done to help at least two accomplices profit from the incidents.

Spanish authorities are investigating the accusations against Kike Salas, and if proven guilty, he could face a prison sentence ranging from six months to three years.

Sevilla has acknowledged being aware of Salas’s detention and is closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, La Liga informed the Associated Press that it plans to request involvement in any judicial proceedings related to the case.

Salas, who joined Sevilla at just 11 years old, has made 54 appearances for the club and has earned two caps for Spain’s U21 team. In December 2024, he signed a contract extension with Sevilla, which will see him remain with the team until the summer of 2029.

The investigation into Salas bears similarities to the case involving West Ham midfielder Lucas Paquetá. 

The Brazilian player has also been accused of intentionally receiving yellow cards to assist others in profiting from bets placed in Brazil. Paquetá’s case is still under investigation, and he could face a lifetime ban if found guilty.

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