Sandro Tonali hit with fresh FA charge for placing bets after signing for Newcastle United
Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has been hit with a fresh charge during his gambling ban.
Tonali signed for the Magpies in July 2023 in a big-money move from AC Milan and was viewed as a real coup for the club under their new PIF ownership.
Just months after his debut, Tonali was investigated by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and later found guilty of illegal betting activity.
The midfielder was subsequently banned for 10 months and isn’t eligible to play football again until August 27, 2024.
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Tonali's ban was issued by the Italian Football Federation and endorsed by FIFA but the FA conducted an investigation of their own.
Now, Newcastle have been handed a fresh blow with the FA confirming Tonali has been handed a fresh charge in relation to betting offences during his time as a player in the Premier League, alleging the Italy international bet on games during his time at St. James Park.
The FA statement reads: “Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct in relation to alleged breaches of The FA’s Betting Rules.
"It’s alleged that the Newcastle United midfielder breached FA Rule E8 50 times by placing bets on football matches between 12 August 2023 and 12 October 2023.
"Sandro Tonali has until 5 April 2024 to respond."
Newcastle have responded to the latest charge confirming they cannot comment on the ongoing investigation.
“Newcastle United acknowledges a misconduct charge received by Sandro Tonali in respect of alleged breaches of FA Betting Rules,” their statement said.
“Sandro continues to fully comply with relevant investigations and he retains the club's full support.
“Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”
It is unknown at this time whether Tonali will face further punishment from the FA. Brentford star Ivan Toney served an eight-month ban from the FA for 232 breaches of their betting rules and made his return in January 2024.
Marcus Banks