Norwegian top-flight club Molde FK has confirmed the withdrawal of Nigerian youth international Daniel Daga from all football activities following a serious legal development. The 18-year-old midfielder, who joined the club in January 2025, has been charged with a sexual conduct offence in Norway.
The club disclosed the situation in an official press release, stating that Daga has fully cooperated with police investigations since the case was reported in late April 2025. As a result of discussions with the club, the player has returned to Nigeria but is expected to travel back to Norway for legal proceedings scheduled for March. Molde chairman Odd Ivar Moen addressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is a serious matter, and we take the charges that have been brought very seriously. We know from experience how demanding such cases are for those involved, for the club, and for everyone around us.”
While the club has acknowledged the burden of the case on all parties, Daga’s legal representative, Astrid Bolstad, has outlined the player’s position. She confirmed that Daga does not admit guilt, acknowledging a sexual encounter took place but maintaining it was consensual and denying any criminal wrongdoing. Bolstad also clarified that there is no suspicion of violence or threats connected to the case.
Daga, who made 18 appearances for Molde this season and represented Nigeria’s Flying Eagles at the 2025 U-20 World Cup, will remain unavailable for training and matches indefinitely. Molde has stated it will refrain from further comment while the legal process is ongoing, emphasizing its serious approach to the charges as the judicial system takes its course.