Newcastle's Sandro Tonali charged with FA misconduct
This is separate to the ban the midfielder is already serving for breaking the Italian FA's rules
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct in relation to alleged breaches of the FA’s betting rules.
The Italian midfielder, who joined from AC Milan last summer, is alleged to have breached FA rule E8 50 times on matches between 12 August 2023 and October 12 2023.
Newcastle United say they are aware of the situation but are unable to comment any further at this time.
Their statement read: “Newcastle United acknowledges a misconduct charge received by Sandro Tonali in respect of alleged breaches of FA betting rules. Sandro continues to fully comply with relevant investigations and he retains the club’s full support.”
“Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”
Tonali has until April 5th to respond to this charge.
Tonali joined the club in July for around £55 million and scored on his debut just six minutes into the game in a 5-1 victory over Aston Villa at St James’ Park.
In October last year, the midfielder was found out to have been betting, dating back to his time in Italy on top of this.
He was handed a 10 month ban from all competitive action until August 27 2024, however he is still allowed to train up until then.
Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth labelled the investigation as “a whirlwind and a massive shock.”
In November Ashworth said: “Our first port of call is to look after and support him. It’s probably more difficult for him than anyone else. We’re putting together a programme of what he can and can’t do over the coming months to get him back flying in August.”
Since that interview, Ashworth has been placed on gardening leave by the club but his statement still applies to the current predicament.
Tonali will continue to serve his ban until next season.