‘Distraught’ - Sandro Tonali update as Newcastle United star returns to training ground

Italy boss Luciano Spalletti says the squad were “distraught” at Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo’s exit last week.

Newcastle United midfielder Tonali and Aston Villa attacker Zaniolo withdrew from international duty on Thursday following a probe by the Turin Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Both players were due to face England in tonight’s Euro 2024 qualifier at Wembley but Tonali is instead back on Tyneside preparing for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.

“It was traumatic for the team because we had the authorities almost in the dressing room and so everyone was surprised and upset,” said Spalletti during his pre-match press conference yesterday.

“We had almost a whole day when we said goodbye to them and we were able to give them a hug before they went home.

“The players themselves were absolutely distraught because when you’re part of a national team everyone is very tight and after the results you can get it’s the one thing you can keep for life, the lasting relationships.”

The full details surrounding Tonali and Zaniolo’s situation are yet to be officially confirmed, though multiple sources in Italy have suggested it is gambling-related.

“Gambling is a form of temptation,” Spalletti added. “It’s a vice and these things happen and we are committed to speaking to these players.

“We will continue to keep an eye on them and we’ll try to provide them with all the help and support that we can to make sure they can go back to do what they enjoy the most.”

Newcastle have not yet commented on Tonali after the Italian Federation statement, which read: “The Federation announces that, in the late afternoon of today, the Turin Public Prosecutor’s Office notified investigation documents to the players Sandro Tonali and Nicolò Zaniolo, currently in training with the national team at the Federal Technical Center in Coverciano.

“Regardless of the nature of the acts, believing that in this situation the two players are not in the necessary condition to face the commitments scheduled in the next few days, the Federation has decided, also to protect them, to allow them to return to their respective clubs.”