Sandro Tonali: Newcastle United break silence as unprecedented ban looms for betting addict

Sandro Tonali could be away from football for 3 years. (photo credit: imago)

Sandro Tonali: Newcastle United break silence as unprecedented ban looms for betting addict

Izuchukwu Akawor 16:13 - 18.10.2023

Newcastle United make a statement as Italy international Sandro Tonali faces big trouble following accusations of illegal betting.

Premier League club Newcastle United have finally released a statement following the investigation of midfielder, Sandro Tonali. 

The United midfielder, Tonali, is being investigated for betting on football by the Italian Prosecutor's Office. 

Tonali admits to betting 

As reported by Pulse Sports Nigeria, the 23-year-old had admitted to betting, having placed bets on illegal websites.

He is said to be cooperating with the authorities, police and Italian football, with the player facing an incredibly lengthy ban from football. 

Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo are facing lengthy suspension for betting. | X/@FabrizioRomano

The accusation and investigation led to Tonali’s withdrawal from the Italy squad that faced Malta and England after he pleaded guilty.

His agent has also admitted that the former AC Milan star has a gambling addiction but is ready to fight to win this battle. 

Sandro Tonali left AC Milan to join Newcastle in the summer transfer window (IMAGO)

Should he be convicted, the midfielder is facing a ban of three years from football, an unprecedented suspension in the world of football. 

“Sandro is playing an important game against gambling addiction. He will win this one too,” his agent Guiseppe Riso said per the Independent. “He is in shock, shaken and sad. I hope that this experience saves his life and that of many others, that it helps those who fall into the same habit as him.”

Newcastle United make statement

Meanwhile, Tonali’s club, Newcastle United, has finally broken their silence after the club released a statement on the player’s ordeal.

Eddie Howe's Newcastle United could be without Tonalu for three years. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Per a report from the Independent, the Magpies are aware of the investigation as the player and his family are fully cooperative with authorities. 

“Newcastle United can confirm that Sandro Tonali is subject to investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to illegal betting activity,” the club stated.

Nicolo Zaniolo and Sandro Tonali in action for Newcastle and Aston Villa || Credit: Imago

“Sandro is fully engaging with the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities. He and his family will continue to receive the club’s full support.

“Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”

With Newcastle United taking on Crystal Palace this weekend before a date with Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League, the club fro Tyneside failed to confirm if Tonali will be available for both ties. 

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