Dude, this is the first time that I've seen someone question this on an interesting way, without directly accusing the problem, but rather inviting discussion.
Thanks for this thread!!

There no denying that sports bet has truly changed the dynamic of several sports... the new sponsorships and increased engagement generate revenue that many clubs and leagues would never has been able to obtain otherwise of this. But now I ask you: This is sustainable at long run? If most of the interest comes from betting, dont you think genuine passion will be replaced by a financial relationship and when thats no longer profitable, many clubs and leagues could disappear?

About manipulations I won't even comment... everyone is to blame and has responsibilities: bettors, clubs, referees, and regulatory bodies.

But beyond all this, I think the social aspect is also significantly impacted... the audience and engagement have increased and this exposed many young and vulnerable people to addiction. They arent directly to blame, but the problem has become much more blatant since it became popular.