Norwegian Eliteserien club Molde FK has indefinitely suspended 18-year-old Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga following formal charges of committing a sexual act without consent, a violation under Section 297 of the Norwegian Penal Code. The club announced the decision in an official statement on December 19, 2025, emphasizing full cooperation with authorities throughout the investigation.
The alleged incident was reported to police in late April 2025, shortly after Daga's arrival in Norway. The case progressed to formal indictment, with a court hearing scheduled for March 2026 at the Nordmøre and Romsdal District Court. Molde FK confirmed that Daga has been barred from all training sessions and match-related activities with immediate effect. The statement noted: “Daniel has been informed of the charges and has been removed from training and matches for the time being. After the end of the season, Daniel traveled home in connection with the team’s planned vacation. Daniel and the club have agreed that he will return to Norway ahead of the legal proceedings.”
Club chairman Odd Ivar Moen described the allegations as grave, stating: “This is a serious matter, and we take the charges that have been brought very seriously. It is important for all parties that the case now receives a thorough and fair treatment in the legal system. Out of consideration for the upcoming legal process, we cannot provide any further comments on the details of the case.” Moen also acknowledged the emotional toll such cases take on all involved parties, including the club.
Daga's lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, has vehemently denied criminal liability on behalf of her client. While acknowledging that a sexual encounter occurred, Bolstad insisted it was consensual. “My client acknowledges that there was a sexual incident, but maintains that it was consensual. He believes that he has done nothing illegal and does not admit guilt,” she stated. “We are surprised that charges have been brought after the investigation that has been carried out. It is also important to clarify that there is no suspicion of violence or threats. My client looks forward to having the case heard in court so that he can clear himself. He is very affected by the situation and the report.”
The suspension represents a dramatic turn for Daga, a highly rated prospect who joined Molde in January 2025 on a three-year contract from Nigerian side FC ONE Rocket (following stints with Dakkada FC and Enyimba). The Benue-born player quickly established himself, making 17-18 appearances across all competitions in his debut season, including scoring in league play. His last match was a 2-1 victory over Strømsgodset on November 24, 2025.
Internationally, Daga has been a standout for Nigeria's youth teams. He captained the Flying Eagles (Nigeria U-20) at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup held in Chile, where the team advanced to the Round of 16 before elimination. Daga had previously featured in the 2023 edition in Argentina, reaching the quarter-finals. His performances earned recognition, including being named among the world's top young talents by The Guardian earlier in 2025.
The case has drawn significant attention in Nigerian football circles, given Daga's status as a potential future Super Eagles player. Sources close to his former clubs confirmed the developments, expressing shock but withholding further comment pending legal outcomes.
Molde FK has maintained a neutral stance, prioritizing due process while isolating Daga from team activities. The club has also been in contact with the complainant's representatives, recognizing the burden on all sides.
As the legal proceedings loom, Daga remains in Nigeria on a scheduled post-season break but is expected to return for the trial. If convicted, the charge could carry a jail term, though details on potential penalties remain subject to court determination.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in professional sports regarding player conduct off the field, particularly for young athletes transitioning to European leagues. Daga's career, once on an upward trajectory with dreams of playing for clubs like Liverpool or Chelsea, now faces uncertainty.
