Ironi Tiberias Defender Samba Mamadou Suspended Amid Bribery Probe

Samba Mamadou, known as Sambinha, a defender for Ironi Tiberias, has been suspended and summoned for questioning in a bribery investigation following his return to Israel. Sambinha was also involved in a separate double-contract scandal. During interrogation, he expressed surprise at being repeatedly questioned, stating, "I never had problems before, but now I am interrogated here every two weeks."

Sambinha resides in Portugal, where his family remains due to his wife's employment, but he plays in Israel because the salaries are significantly higher, earning 16,000 euros monthly compared to less than half that in Portugal. He noted the competitive nature of Portuguese football, favoring younger players.

Regarding the bribery allegations, Sambinha echoed sentiments similar to other players, emphasizing trust in the club's professional and medical staff when it comes to decisions about his fitness and participation. He stated, "For ten years as a professional player, I have not encountered bribery. If the club's staff says something is good, you believe them. Even now, I do not know the details."