Norwegian club suspends Super Eagles prospect after formal se*ual assault charge

Norwegian club Molde Fotballklubb has suspended Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga after he was formally charged with committing a sexual act without consent, an offence under Section 297 of the Norwegian Penal Code.

The club confirmed the development in an official statement on Friday, noting that the alleged incident was first reported to police in late April 2025.

Legal proceedings are expected to take place in March 2026 at the Nordmøre and Romsdal District Court.

Molde FK stated that both the player and the club have cooperated fully with Norwegian police throughout the investigation.

Following notification of the indictment, Daga has been barred from all training sessions and match activities for the foreseeable future.

After the conclusion of the 2025 season, the 18-year-old returned to his home country for a scheduled holiday. The club confirmed that arrangements have been made for his return to Norway ahead of the court hearings.

Molde FK chairman Odd Ivar Moen emphasised the gravity of the situation and the club’s responsibility in handling it.

He said, “We have previously experienced how demanding these types of cases are for everyone involved, for the club, and for our community. This is a matter of a serious nature, and we view the indictment with the utmost seriousness.”

Moen added that the club has been in contact with the complainant’s legal counsel to acknowledge the strain the case has caused.

“We want to act respectfully and facilitate a fair process for those affected,” he said.

Daga’s lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, firmly denied the allegations on his behalf. While confirming that a sexual encounter took place, she stated that her client maintains it was consensual.

“My client does not plead guilty and believes he has done nothing illegal,” Bolstad said. “There is no suspicion of violence or threats. He looks forward to having the case heard in court so he can clear his name.”

Bolstad also noted that Daga was surprised by the decision to bring formal charges and that the situation had a significant emotional impact on him.