Devis Mangia, the allegations of sexual violence classified as “improper conduct” – Football

From an investigation conducted by the Safeguarding Council of the Maltese Football Association, the former coach, Devis Eatwas found guilty of misconduct against own players but not against sexual harassment. In a statement, the Maltese Football Federation said there was enough evidence to support the charge of improper conduct against the 48-year-old coach from Lombardy, but not enough for that of sexual harassment. The board decided that “Mangia will be temporarily suspended from participating in any football activity in Malta until he completes a professional duties course which he is required to complete within six months. The chosen course must be approved by the Association’s Supervisory Board.

The Italian manager was removed from his post in September last year after two international players reported him for misconduct. He was immediately suspended as a result and the case was referred to the police for further investigation. Appointed coach of the Malta national team in 2019 with a contract until December 2023, Mangia resigned on 7 November 2022 and has always categorically rejected the allegations. The Football Federation announces that “the reasons will be sent to the parties in due time” and that “the decision can be appealed”.