Featured Image Credit: Sport Mediaset - Getty
Topics: Sandro Tonali, AC Milan, Newcastle United, Premier League, Champions League
Jack Kenmare
Topics: Sandro Tonali, AC Milan, Newcastle United, Premier League, Champions League
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali refused to rule out a possible return to AC Milan after he was asked about his future following Tuesday night's Champions League clash.
The 23-year-old Italian, who joined Eddie Howe's side from boyhood club AC Milan in July for a reported £55 million, received a warm reception on his highly-anticipated return.
In fact, thousands of supporters handed Tonali a standing ovation before he was replaced by Elliot Anderson in the 72nd minute – a nod to his relationship with the Rossoneri fan base.
After an evening filled with emotions, Tonali said it was an "incredible feeling" to make his San Siro return just two months after leaving for the Premier League.
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He wrote on social media: "An incredible feeling coming back to what has been my home. Thank you everyone for all your love. We take an important point from a difficult stadium. Focused on the next!!"
Tonali, who has so far made four appearances for the Magpies in England's top flight, was also asked about a return to AC Milan in the future.
Speaking to Mediaset via Fabrizio Romano after the full-time whistle, he said: "Return to AC Milan one day? I don’t know... I’d pay to know my future. Maybe yes, maybe not. Football is strange."
The Italy international added: "I’m not closing the door to AC Milan. I can’t and won’t hide my love, passion for Milan”.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was asked to give his thoughts on Tonali's performance against AC Milan during his post-match press conference.
“I thought Sandro did well,” he said. “It was obviously an emotional occasion for him. I’m not underestimating that, coming back here and how he would have felt before the game I’m sure was unique for him.
"I don’t think anyone can quite describe how he would have felt going into the game."
Howe added: “He was part of a good defensive display in that first half. He can be very pleased and very proud. I thought he represented himself well and I know there’s more to come from him.”
After bagging a goal on his Premier League debut against top-six hopefuls Aston Villa in August, the influential Tonali has impressed for his new club in recent weeks.
Thoughts on his start to life at Newcastle? Let us know in the comments.