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Argentina Women’s Players Detail Abuse Claims Against Ex-Youth Coach

The public accounts revive scrutiny of how the sport protects young players.

Overview

  • Four of the five original complainants spoke publicly in new interviews, naming former youth coach Diego Guacci and describing what they say was a hostile, coercive environment.
  • The players allege sexualized comments, pressure for intimate photos, threats tied to team selection, and targeting of isolated teenagers, with some recounting lasting damage to careers and mental health.
  • FIFA’s ethics process delivered split outcomes, as investigators recommended sanctions but the adjudication panel later closed the case citing insufficient evidence and noting the decision was not an exoneration.
  • FIFPro, the global players’ union, says at least 11 additional testimonies back the accusations, yet FIFA has not formally reopened the file.
  • Guacci denies wrongdoing and is seeking legal vindication in Argentina, while several players have filed civil actions over damages and defamation.