Newcastle United fans have reacted angrily to the news that star midfielder Sandro Tonali has been banned from gambling for ten months.
According to Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), the offenses occurred while he was playing for his old team, AC Milan.
Tonali would have to go through an eight-month rehabilitation phase as part of the arrangement, according to Gravina.
Tonali’s agent stated that the athlete has a gambling addiction and that he has fully cooperated with Italian authorities.
The 23-year-old acknowledged to betting on matches, including ones in which he played for AC Milan. He joined Newcastle for £55 million in the summer.
Professional footballers in Italy are not permitted to bet on matches organized by Fifa, Uefa, or the FIGC.
The default ban is three years, although it can be reduced by entering a guilty plea and collaborating with authorities.
Newcastle fans were determined to remain optimistic after learning of a probable ban earlier this month.
“The burden of concealing his gambling is now off his shoulders,” one source added. He’ll seek the proper treatment for his addiction… When he returns to full-time play, he will be only 24 years old.”
“Could have been much worse,” commented another. He will receive therapy in Italy, participate in community service in Italy, and train and play friendly matches with us.
“This way he hopefully gets support, treatment and stays integrated within the team until he is back properly.”
“Would be nice to see Tonali release something with club giving his side,” another person said. Thanking supporters for their support and promising to return stronger for his nufc career.”
“We will throw our arms around Sandro and protect him and try to give him the love and support he needs to find solutions to the problems he’s had,” Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said last Friday.
“We see him as a long-term member of our team.” We are devoted to him in the long run.”
