Sevilla Defender Kike Salas Under Investigation for Alleged Match-Fixing Scheme
Spanish authorities have launched an investigation into Sevilla FC defender Kike Salas over allegations of deliberately receiving yellow cards to profit from betting activities. The 22-year-old was reportedly detained by police on Tuesday as part of the ongoing probe.

Suspicious Yellow Cards Raise Concerns
The investigation focuses on the closing stages of the 2023/2024 La Liga season, during which Sevilla was mid-table with no prospects for European qualification or relegation battles.
Between matchdays 30 and 38, Salas received seven yellow cards, primarily in the final minutes of games, making him the most penalized player in La Liga during that period.
Allegations of Collusion with Associates
According to El Confidencial, the court in Morón de la Frontera is examining Salas’ actions under suspicion of fraud. Meanwhile, Marca reports that two individuals close to Salas are also under investigation.
These associates are accused of profiting from insider knowledge by placing bets on the defender’s yellow cards. The scale of the alleged scheme remains unclear, and authorities have not ruled out the involvement of additional parties.
Potential Legal Consequences
If convicted of fraud, Salas could face a prison sentence ranging from six months to three years. Despite these serious allegations, the player resumed training with Sevilla after giving his statement to the police.
Career Background
Kike Salas, a product of Sevilla’s youth academy, has made 43 appearances for the Andalusian club in La Liga, scoring four goals. In December 2023, he extended his contract with Sevilla until 2029, solidifying his role in the team’s future plans.