Newcastle United and Sandro Tonali blow ahead of 2024-25 Premier League season

Sandro Tonali will not be allowed to feature in Newcastle United's pre-season friendlies this summer as part of his ban handed down by the Italian authorities.

The 23-year-old, who moved to St James’ Park from AC Milan for £52million in the summer, was investigated by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and FIGC in relation to illegal betting activity in October.

It resulted in Tonali being suspended from football until August 2024 while the midfielder agreed to undergo an eight-month rehabilitation programme after admitting to a gambling addiction.

Crucially, Tonali has been able to train with his Magpies' teammates as normal and there were suggestions he could appear in friendlies. However, according to the Daily Mail, he cannot appear in matches that are played in a public domain, but can play in behind-closed-doors games.

Speaking about Tonali last week, Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe said: "He's very much like a normal player apart from the fact we can't pick him on a Saturday. Apart from that, he's doing everything. He's doing all the training.

"His attitude has been absolutely brilliant. When you consider he's not got that carrot at the end of the week - he's not got that game - you wouldn't know it from his training performances.

"He's been very good for the other players that are playing. It's been frustrating seeing him because you know you're missing a top quality player. I would love to be able to use him at the moment, but I'm seeing some really good things from him."

As it stands, Tonali is due to return in late August, although he and Newcastle are still awaiting the outcome of the FA's investigation, which NewcastleWorld understands remains ongoing.

Newcastle are yet to confirm their pre-season plans after last year heading to the United States to take on Chelsea, Brighton and Aston Villa at the Premier League Summer Series.

Tonali has received constant support from everyone associated with United, none more so than the supporters in recent weeks whose catchy new chant 'Sandro ole ole ole' is a matchday staple. Indeed, United assistant manager Jason Tindall is a fan.

“It’s great because Sandro is a great lad," said Tindall. "He trains really hard every single day and he’s going to be a top player for this football club moving forward. To see the fans showing him that love… it’s been a really difficult time for him.

"He’s obviously really important and I’m just he’ll take a lot of confidence and love from that."