Newcastle United will be without Sandro Tonali for the remainder of the 2023-24 season, following the announcement of his suspension.
Eddie Howe declined to be drawn on whether Newcastle United will attempt to find a replacement for Sandro Tonali during the January transfer window earlier this week.
Tonali was issued a 10-month penalty by the Italian Football Federation on Thursday, following an investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) into unlawful betting activities.
The 23-year-old won’t be able to play again until August of next year, a few weeks into the 2024-25 season, but he can practice with the Magpies as usual.
Tonali’s immediate absence leaves Newcastle depleted in midfield, although Howe refused to discuss prospective alternatives prior to the 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
“It’s a little early for that, to be honest,” the Magpies’ manager stated. I know there are a lot of rumors flying around, but until we know for sure, January and everything it would entail, we will have time to plan a strategy for that moment, which is not yet.”
Tonali has made 12 appearances for Newcastle after signing from AC Milan in the summer in a deal costing £52 million with add-ons.
Tonali’s teammate Sean Longstaff was questioned at the same press conference as Howe on Tuesday, and he believes United have the squad depth to cope without him, noting Joe Willock’s return.
“I’m confident we can cope,” Longstaff remarked. We don’t know the outcome yet, but we have Joe Willock returning from injury, Joelinton fit again, and Elliot Anderson stepping up significantly. Then there’s Lewis Miley, the little superstar I adore.
“The major one is Willock’s return. I could go on and on about how good he is, and even observing him in training this week, he doesn’t appear to have lost a beat. I’m really thrilled to have him back.
“We know how important he is; the team performs best when he is present.” No one can accomplish what he does in terms of movement off the ball and confidence on it. Hopefully, he can demonstrate his abilities on this stage as well.”
