Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has admitted to placing bets on AC Milan games according to Sky Sports and he is now facing a ban from football.
This is a huge blow for Newcastle United Football Club as their star midfielder, Sandro Tonali, is facing a ban from football after admitting placing bets on AC Milan games during his time with the Rossoneri. The midfielder is among several players who are being investigated in this betting scandal.
Newcastle has released an official statement confirming the news that the Italian midfielder is being investigated by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). The official club statement stated;
"“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 engaging with the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities.He and his family will continue to receive the club’s full support.Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”"
According to Sky Sports, Tonali has admitted ‘betting on matches – both in which he played and did not play – for Milan to win.’
Now, as per FIFA Code 26, players found guilty could see them getting banned from football worldwide for up to three years. It is unlikely that Tonali will face such a long ban as he admitted his guilt. However, Newcastle fans can expect him to be out of action for a long time.
Newcastle United will face Crystal Palace on Sunday in their next Premier League fixture without Sandro Tonali in the squad. He had proved to be a huge part of the Newcastle team since he made the switch to St. James’ Park. Thus, it is a huge blow for Eddie Howe’s men who are looking to replicate the result of the last season and go even further.
Do you think Newcastle United will heavily miss Sandro Tonali?