Former West Bromwich Albion striker Brown Ideye has warned against the dangers of Premier League players using witchdoctors.
A report in The Sun newspaper claims players are using black magic to try to improve their performances.
It says they are paying thousands of pounds to witchdoctors in a bid to find another level.
The players are visiting juju men in West Africa, where they are shown how to conduct bizarre rituals that are also said to break the curse of injury.
Emmanuel Adebayor claimed earlier this year that his mum used black magic to ruin his form in front of goal for Spurs.
Ideye, who left Albion to join Olympiacos last month, has warned some stars are being conned by tribesmen.
He said: “I know players who get involved with the Juju men and they can’t get out. It’s a trap. They might get short-term benefits, but in the long run they pay for it. Juju men have a lot of influence.
“These are men who are just trying to make themselves rich and tell you they can make your life perfect.
“If things like that worked then instead of Messi and Ronaldo winning world player of the year it should be some African players.
“I would advise players not to follow this route but it’s their choice, I can’t stop them.”
According to a national daily, some of the rituals include the £460-a-time Troupkéka Milika.
Benin-based Juju man Marabout Degla explained: “During its nine days you cannot sleep with a woman and you should cover yourself with a white loincloth while you sleep at night.”
Also on offer to players is “a magic ring that allows you to dominate playing partners and opponents during every competition you take part in.”