Milan footballers deny involvement in escort investigation

Rafael Leão, Portuguese forward for AC Milan, issued a statement denying any involvement in an investigation by Milan's prosecutor into an alleged luxury escort operation. The player addressed the matter directly through social media after his name circulated among reports linking multiple Serie A footballers to the inquiry.

"I want to clarify directly that I am totally unrelated to the facts subject of the investigation. I am not involved and have not committed any crime," Leão wrote. He criticized the manner in which his name had been associated with the case, stating: "I invite everyone to avoid associating my name with this situation in an arbitrary way. Before being footballers, we are people with a family and a reputation."

Leão announced he had instructed his legal representatives to pursue action to protect his image and interests.

Riccardo Calafiori, another player whose name appeared in reports related to the case, similarly broke his silence to distance himself from the allegations. Both players emphasized they wished their names removed from the inquiry.

The investigation, coordinated by deputy prosecutor Bruno Albertini, centers on a company based in Cinisello Balsamo in the Milan metropolitan area. Four individuals were placed under house arrest on charges of facilitating and exploiting prostitution, as well as money laundering. Among those arrested were Emanuele Buttini and Deborah Ronchi, a couple aged 37 and 38, who allegedly operated the business.

According to prosecutors' documents, the operation targeted wealthy clients, including footballers, offering what was described as a "post-match service" package. The arrangement reportedly included an evening at one of 26 venues across Milan's nightlife district, accommodation, and escort services, priced at several thousand euros. The venues allegedly involved included Pineta Milano, Just, Dolce&Gabbana Martini, Il Jazz Cafè, and JustMe. The operation also extended to the Greek island of Mykonos.

During these gatherings, nitrous oxide—commonly known as laughing gas or balloon drug—was reportedly used. This chemical substance produces euphoric effects without leaving detectable traces, meaning it would not be identified in anti-doping tests.

Authorities confiscated over 1.2 million euros from the company as part of the investigation. Two additional individuals, Fabio Barbera, 36, and Alessio Salamo, were also placed under house arrest under the same measures.