Newcastle United’s star player, Sandro Tonali, has had his 10-month ban for illegal gambling confirmed by FIFA, extending the suspension on a global scale.
The initial announcement came on Thursday after Tonali was implicated in an investigation by Italian prosecutors and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) regarding allegations of illegal betting earlier this month. The Italian FA released a statement confirming that the Federal Prosecutor’s Office had reached an agreement for an 18-month penalty with Tonali.
This sanction includes a 10-month ban from football, while the remaining eight months are designated for a ‘therapeutic plan’ aimed at helping him overcome his ‘gambling addiction.’ This plan entails at least 16 public appearances in Italy, involving participation in amateur sports associations and ‘federal territorial centers.’
In addition to the suspension, Tonali was fined £17,380 for violating FIGC regulations that prohibit players from betting on football events organized by FIGC, UEFA, and FIFA.
Despite the ongoing situation, Newcastle United manager Howe commended Tonali for his performance and conduct, particularly during his recent appearance against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. Howe noted, “I think you saw from the Dortmund game he came on and did really well. He was bright. That’s how he’s trained. From the moment this happened, I think his training performances have been very good. That’s the only way I can judge it. His mood is the same, he’s good around the group, good around the training ground.”
It is expected that Tonali will be allowed to participate in training sessions and behind-closed-doors matches with Newcastle, but he will be ineligible for the Euros if Italy qualifies.
