Tonali facing further punishment as FA charge Newcastle star with betting breaches

Suraj Radia

• 28 Mar 2024 15:34 GMT
• 3 min read

Newcastle could face more chaos after it was announced that banned record signing Sandro Tonali has been charged by the FA for further breaches of betting rules.

Tonali was banned for ten months in October last year following an investigation by Italian authorities into illegal betting, with the 23-year-old also required to attend regular therapy sessions after admitting an addiction to gambling.

However, while his current ban is for offences committed during his time at former club Milan, the midfielder has been alleged to breaching the FA’s betting rules 50 times between August 12 and October 12 – the day he was questioned by Italian authorities.

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A statement from the FA indicated alluded to bets made after Tonali’s €64 million summer move from Milan and therefore could see him face a further ban, although Newcastle are said to be confident that will not be the case.

It has been suggested that Tonali’s alleged breaches in Italy and England will be considered as ‘one period of betting activity’ meaning any punishment will likely run concurrently with his ban that is due to end in August.

Tonali has until April 5 to respond while Newcastle released a brief statement outlining their support for their player, who is said to be complying with the investigations.

Tonali ban latest blow in difficult season for Newcastle

The news is the latest drama in Newcastle’s turbulent season, which has been plagued by injury and inconsistent form, combined with speculation over the future of the club’s star players.

Tonali’s name had come up after Nicolo Fagioli had also been investigated by Italian authorities for similar breaches, which saw the Juventus midfielder banned for seven months.

READ MORE: Latest Newcastle transfer rumours

The suspension for Tonali was confirmed within two weeks of him being questioned and his debut season at Newcastle ended after just 12 appearances and one goal.

Tonali’s ban will end in late August, however he has been allowed to train with Newcastle in the interim while also travelling regularly to Italy for rehabilitation for his addiction.

Newcastle have remained supportive of Tonali throughout and the player himself was immediately co-operative with authorities, which could impact any decision over his punishment by the FA.