FA confirm Sandro Tonali investigation after Newcastle United midfielder’s 10 month ban

The Football Association has confirmed it has launched its own investigation into Sandro Tonali after the Newcastle United midfielder was banned from football for 10 months by the Italian authorities.

Last week it was announced the 23-year-old had been suspended from playing until August 2024 after being investigated by the Italian Football Federation for illegal betting activity whilst he was under contract at Brescia and AC Milan.

Tonali joined the Magpies from Milan for £52million in the summer. NewcastleWorld understands The FA are now investigating whether the midfielder broke betting rules after his move to the Premier League.

On Friday morning, Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth addressed the media in a 45-minute session and was asked if the FA were looking into a potential breach of their betting rules.

“All I can say to you is that we have fully cooperated with all of the associations and organisations concerned and the FA are, of course, fully aware of what’s going on,” Ashworth said.

“They are the ones who had to sanction the ban so we’re fully cooperating with everybody.”

He added: “All I can deal with is the present and the facts. I can’t look into the future and, as I’ve said, we’ve cooperated fully with all of the organisations.”

Tonali admitted to being a gambling addict last month is receiving the full support of the football club. The Italian is permitted to train with his teammates and take part in behind the scenes friendlies.