The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has announced a 10-month ban for Sandro Tonali, the Italian international midfielder playing for Newcastle United. This penalty stems from his involvement in betting activities. The 23-year-old was found to have placed bets on matches related to his former club, AC Milan, prior to his transfer to Newcastle, a move that made him the most expensive Italian player in history with a 56-million-pound (64-million-euro) transfer fee. The ban implies that Tonali will be unavailable for the remainder of the current Premier League season and, if Italy qualifies, the upcoming European Championship next summer, potentially affecting Italy’s title defense.
Tonali is the second Italian player to face a football ban due to a betting scandal that came to light during the recent international break. Juventus’ Nicolo Fagioli was previously suspended for seven months by the FIGC’s disciplinary tribunal.
It’s worth noting that Tonali’s agent has claimed that his client is dealing with a gambling addiction. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has expressed the club’s commitment to supporting Tonali during this challenging time, emphasizing their intention to provide him with the care and assistance he needs to address his issues. Howe further affirmed the club’s long-term commitment to Tonali, considering him a vital part of their team for years to come.
