According to Sky in Italy, Sandro Tonali, the Newcastle midfielder, is looking down the barrel of a substantial football ban. This comes after Tonali admitted to placing bets on AC Milan’s games during his stint with the Italian club.
Tonali’s Admission in the Italian Federation Hearing
The startling confession was made during a hearing at the Italian Federation in Turin on Tuesday. The 23-year-old footballer was implicated in an Italian football betting investigation last week. This development forced him to step back from the senior men’s squad for the match against England on Tuesday.
Newcastle’s Official Statement
Newcastle United has issued an official statement in response to the betting allegations against Sando Tonali. The club confirmed that Tonali is under investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) concerning illegal betting activities.
The club statement released on Twitter read, “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. Sandro is fully…â€
Tonali’s Cooperation with the Investigation
Newcastle United emphasized that Tonali is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The club also assured that they would continue to support him and his family throughout the investigation. Both Tonali and Newcastle United have refrained from giving further comments due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.
The Implications of Tonali’s Actions
During the hearing on Tuesday, Tonali confessed to betting on Milan’s matches, regardless of his participation in them. This is a breach of FIFA Code 26. As a result, players could face a ban of up to three years from global football. However, Tonali’s cooperation with the investigation and his admission of guilt could potentially lead to a reduced punishment.
Comparing Tonali’s Case to Juventus Midfielder Nicolo Fagioli
In a similar case, Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli was the first player implicated in the betting investigation. Fagioli received a seven-month ban for betting on football games. Unlike Tonali, Fagioli self-reported his actions. Consequently, five months of his one-year ban were suspended, and he was also ordered to pay a fine and enter a mandatory therapy plan to address his gambling issue.
Tonali’s Return to Newcastle
Sandro Tonali, who was transferred from Milan to Newcastle for a fee of £55 million in the summer, is expected to return to Newcastle on Wednesday. Tonali’s agent, in a statement, acknowledged the player’s struggle with a gambling problem and highlighted it as a significant challenge in his career. Newcastle is set to play against Crystal Palace in a home match on Saturday.
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