Sandro Tonali Facing 10-Month Ban for Illegal Betting

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali is on the brink of a 10-month football ban as Italian authorities prepare to officially announce his suspension for involvement in illegal betting, as reported by the Daily Mail.

Tonali’s legal team has been engaged in discussions with prosecutors and the Italian Football Federation, and a resolution is reportedly imminent. The allegations stem from his time at AC Milan, where it is claimed he placed illicit bets.

Despite the impending ban, the Italian sensation, who made a £55 million switch to Newcastle in the summer, will remain eligible to play in the upcoming Champions League showdown against Borussia Dortmund scheduled for Wednesday night.

The suspension is expected to take effect starting on Thursday, marking the beginning of a challenging period for Tonali.

Should the 10-month ban commence as anticipated on Thursday, it would mean that Tonali will be absent for the remainder of the ongoing 2023/24 season with Newcastle.

Furthermore, the 23-year-old midfielder is set to miss the initial weeks of the 2024-2025 campaign and will also be sidelined for Euro 2024, where he was expected to represent Italy.

While he won’t be able to participate in official matches until late August 2024, sources suggest that Tonali will be allowed to continue training with Eddie Howe’s squad during his suspension. The young talent faces a tough road ahead, with hopes for a successful return to the pitch once the ban concludes.