For around 70 million euros, Newcastle United, who were taken over by Saudi Arabia, have strengthened themselves this summer with Milan ace Sandro Tonali. This transfer paid off directly on matchday 1 of the new season
Newcastle’s successful coach Eddie Howe of course directly included top newcomer Tonali in his starting eleven. The 23-year-old Italian international had been brought in from Italy’s fashionable city a few weeks ago – quite surprisingly for many Milan fans.
And how could it be otherwise? The midfielder, who grew up as a fan of the Rossoneri, immediately made his mark on the first foreign adventure of his young career. Tonali showed himself to be playable, present, pass-proof and in a leading role from the very first second.
Early goal included: The former Hoffenheim player Joelinton and Gordon set up strongly on the left side in the 6th minute of the game, while Aston Villa’s defence did not develop a grip. In the end, Gordon crossed sharply into the middle, where Tonali flew in and completed the goal with an artistic stretched leg from a few metres to make it 1-0.
Diaby also scores in first game
No wonder the packed St James’ Park in Newcastle upon Tyne was buzzing and celebrating the new man – and he was also celebrated by his team-mates.
The Villans, however, coached by Unai Emery, also played along, showing courage in phases and playing well-groomed counter-attacking football on the pitch. The ex-Leverkusenian Diaby, who was brought in in the summer, was often involved and immediately scored the 1:1. After an extended cross, the attacking player was left free in the centre of the pitch and scored with ease (11th minute).
Five goals on matchday 1
The host Magpies did not start to wobble, they were in control on this Saturday evening – apart from the few good phases of the Villans.
The logical consequence of this: a few more goals. First of all, former Dortmund player Isak scored after a great Tonali cross and a neat deflection by the offside defender Botman – 2:1 (16th). After the restart Isak scored the decisive 3:1 (58.) with a wonderful lob over keeper Martinez, before substitute Wilson (77.) and Barnes (90.+1) both scored alone in front of Martinez to make it 5:1. Newcastle, who have also qualified for the Champions League, started the new season with an announcement to the rest of the league.
On the coming 2nd matchday, Newcastle United have to face reigning champions Manchester City. Aston Villa take on Everton FC one day later (3 pm).
