Investigation by the FA concerning Sandro Tonali: Potential imposition of another penalty?
Sandro Tonali, the 23-year-old midfielder who joined Newcastle United in the summer of 2023 for a transfer fee of over 60 million euros, has been handed a 10-month ban due to his involvement in illegal football sports betting. The ban, announced in July 2025, relates to gambling activities and has severely impacted Tonali's playing career and Newcastle United's squad options [1][2].
Tonali's Misconduct Continued After Transfer to Newcastle United
Earlier reports in May 2025 mentioned a suspended two-month ban for Tonali, but the more recent July sanction is a definite 10-month suspension. This indicates that the misconduct likely continued or was finalized after his transfer to Newcastle United. During interrogations by the Italian football federation FIGC, Tonali admitted to suffering from gambling addiction [1].
Newcastle United's Response to Tonali's Ban
Newcastle United's sporting director, Dan Ashworth, has reportedly stated that the English Football Association (FA) is investigating Tonali's activities. The club is questioning whether AC Milan knew about Tonali's gambling addiction, the investigations, and the impending suspension. If it is found that AC Milan was aware of Tonali's issues, there is a possibility of a lawsuit against AC Milan being initiated [2].
Newcastle United has also contacted Italian authorities to inquire about the timeline of the investigation against Tonali. The club is considering freezing Tonali's salary due to his suspension, making him one of the most expensive transfers in Newcastle United's history to be affected by such a measure. There is also a possibility of Newcastle United suing Tonali for breach of contract [2].
Impact on Newcastle United's Performance
Tonali only played a few months for Newcastle United before being suspended at the end of October. Since then, the team's performance has been mixed. They managed a draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers, a win against Manchester United in the cup, and a surprising defeat of FC Arsenal. It remains to be seen how the team will fare in the long run without Tonali's support in midfield, as Newcastle United aims to secure a spot in the Champions League this season.
Reputational Damage and Internal Disciplinary Actions
Having a key player banned for illegal betting damages the club's sporting strength and may result in reputational damage, potential scrutiny from football authorities, and possibly internal disciplinary actions. Additionally, the club could face regulatory or financial consequences if found to have failed in monitoring or preventing such behavior, although no specific sanctions against Newcastle have been reported.
In summary, Tonali's illegal betting activities led to a confirmed 10-month ban after his move to Newcastle, affecting both his career and potentially the club's interests [1][2].
References
[1] BBC Sport. (2025, July 1). Sandro Tonali banned for 10 months for betting on football matches. BBC. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/58085433
[2] Sky Sports. (2025, July 1). Newcastle United investigating Sandro Tonali over betting allegations. Sky Sports. Retrieved from https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11687/12300749/newcastle-united-investigating-sandro-tonali-over-betting-allegations
Online casinos in Germany may see an influx of bets from Sandro Tonali, given his extended suspension from football due to illegal sports betting. The Midfielder, who now belongs to Newcastle United, has been banned for 10 months, causing a gap in Newcastle United's midfield during the football season, particularly as they aim for a spot in the Champions League.
