As the ongoing investigation into the betting scandal affecting Italian football unfolds, Newcastle has issued a statement regarding Sandro Tonali. When Eddie Howe signed Tonali during the summer, he surely couldn’t have anticipated the possibility of the player facing a potential long-term suspension due to irregular betting activities.
It’s crucial to emphasize that, as of now, Tonali hasn’t been formally charged with any wrongdoing. He remains eligible to play in the upcoming weekend’s match against Crystal Palace, provided Howe believes he can maintain focus on the task at hand.
However, the situation is evolving rapidly, and significant changes could occur before Saturday.
The official Newcastle United statement on their website confirmed that Sandro Tonali is currently under investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in connection to illegal betting.
Tonali is actively cooperating with the investigation and receiving support from both the club and his family. Due to the ongoing nature of the process, neither Sandro nor Newcastle United can offer further comments at this time.
The player’s awareness of the club’s support will undoubtedly provide him with considerable comfort during this challenging period. It’s worth noting that a gambling addiction is a serious issue, possibly contributing to Tonali’s dip in form after a promising start with the Magpies.
🚨⚪️⚫️ Newcastle official statement on Sandro Tonali and betting case.
“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… pic.twitter.com/xBVLumGMD5
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 18, 2023
For all parties involved, it is imperative that the investigation promptly establishes the facts and determines an appropriate course of action. This will enable Newcastle to plan for the immediate future and provide an opportunity for Tonali to acknowledge his mistake, confront his personal challenges, and, hopefully, emerge on the other side of this ordeal.