Newcastle United’s midfielder, Sandro Tonali, has had his 10-month ban from professional football ratified by FIFA, causing an unexpected setback for the club. The ban, imposed due to betting violations, will see Tonali sidelined until late August 2024, rendering him unavailable for Newcastle’s Premier League match against Wolves.
Eddie Howe, the Newcastle manager, had initially hoped for Tonali’s availability for the Wolves clash, but FIFA’s decision to uphold the Italian authorities’ request has dashed those hopes. Tonali, who admitted to betting on matches in Italy during his time with AC Milan, cooperated with the investigation by Turin prosecutors, ultimately avoiding a potential three-year ban.
The ban not only disrupts Newcastle’s plans for the current season but also means Tonali will miss Euro 2024 and the start of the next season with Newcastle. As part of his deal with Italian authorities, the 23-year-old midfielder will attend treatment sessions for problem gamblers and deliver a series of talks about his experience over an additional eight-month period.
The situation has put Newcastle in a precarious position, with the PFA also getting involved in assisting the player. Newcastle fans and management will be eagerly waiting for Tonali’s return in late 2024, hoping that this episode will mark a fresh start for the talented midfielder.
