Sandro Tonali’s ten-month ban has now also been confirmed by FIFA. The Newcastle United professional, who has been embroiled in a betting scandal, will not be allowed to play as early as next Saturday
On Thursday, the Italian federation FIGC had announced: Sandro Tonali will be banned for ten months in the wake of the betting scandal. This ban has now been confirmed by FIFA: It is effective immediately and in accordance with the FIGC’s request for all competitions.
Newcastle coach Eddie Howe had still hoped that his newcomer could be used next Saturday against Wolverhampton Wanderers (18.30 clock). However, last Wednesday’s Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund (0-1), in which Tonali was substituted, is now likely to be the Italian international’s last game for the time being.
Tonali must fulfill conditions to avert longer ban
This means the season is over for Tonali. Likewise, the midfielder will not be available for the European Championship in Germany should Italy qualify.
Because of his involvement in the betting scandal, Tonali will have to undergo at least six months of therapy to combat his gambling addiction. He will also have to attend 16 lectures on the subject of gambling addiction. If he violates the measures, he faces a significantly longer ban of more than three years.
Tonali admitted his gambling addiction. He is said to have bet on games of his former clubs. He is joined in the scandal by Juventus Turin’s Nicolo Fagioli and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo. Fagioli had already been banned for seven months, while Zaniolo is still under investigation.
