This morning, Fabrizio Romano posted an update on Sandro Tonali, implying that a statement on his suspension from international football is due today.
Yesterday, Eddie Howe told the media that he was preparing for tonight’s game against Borussia Dortmund as if Tonali would be available. He is the only one who knows if this indicates he has him in the starting lineup.
However, there are now strong indications that Tonali and the Italian Football Federation have agreed to a 10-month ban, and that the former AC Milan star will still be available for Howe in tonight’s Champions League encounter.
According to reports, a ’10-month’ suspension has been agreed upon. Football journalist extraordinaire Fabrizio Romano issued an update on X today that makes for interesting reading.
It strongly suggests that the Italian play Federation will issue a statement shortly, and Tonali will face a 10-month ban from international play.
“Sandro Tonali will be banned for ten months — sources confirm final indications; statement pending.” He will be unable to play for the next ten months owing to a gambling addiction controversy. As with Nicoló Fagioli, there will be additional months of involvement in the gambling recovery plan.”
Juventus player Fagioli was given a seven-month ban for cooperating with the inquiry.
Tonali’s ban was expected to be more severe, with anything from one to three years on the table, so a 10-month suspension is actually not too bad.
The Daily Mail has confirmed Romano’s allegation that a 10-month deal has been reached, but has also stated that Tonali will still be able to appear tonight.
Newcastle may seek to the loan market to address the midfield hole in January.
It means the Magpies will be without their big-money summer signing for the rest of the season, but a January loan deal for someone to come in for the remainder of the season would be enough to compensate for his absence.
With Joe Willock’s impending return from injury, Newcastle may not even feel the need to go to the loan market to replace Tonali.
