According to a report in the Daily Mail, Sandro Tonali is facing a football ban as a result of illegal betting investigations. These probes led to Tonali, as well as Nicolo Zaniolo, being dropped from Italy’s national squad during the recent international break. Tonali is expected to be available for Newcastle United’s Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, but it might be his last appearance for several months and for the rest of the season.
The potential ban for Tonali could extend to 10 months, during which he may be required to participate in eight months of therapy and anti-gambling initiatives. This proposed ban is longer than the eight-month ban that Ivan Toney received in a similar situation while playing for Premier League club Brentford in the UK.
Additionally, there are reports that Newcastle may consider filing a lawsuit against AC Milan, the club from which they signed Tonali in July. Newcastle feels aggrieved as they purchased Tonali in the summer, and he is now facing a lengthy ban due to offenses committed in Italy, potentially with AC Milan’s knowledge when they sold him.
The article also mentions that Tonali’s salary is expected to be suspended for the duration of the ban, but Newcastle has not confirmed or denied this at the moment.
Last week, Newcastle United released a statement regarding the allegations, expressing that Tonali is fully cooperating with the investigation, and the club will continue to offer full support to him and his family in this matter.