Newcastle United has announced that Sandro Tonali will be eligible to play again starting August 28, following a 10-month suspension for violating betting rules.
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) handed down the ban to the 24-year-old in October 2023 after it was revealed that he had placed bets on football events organized by FIGC, UEFA, and FIFA while still playing in Italy.
Tonali, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan in July 2023 for £55 million, had played 12 games for the Magpies before the ban took effect. Newcastle confirmed, "The club has received formal confirmation from the FIGC that the player's sporting sanction will end on Tuesday, August 27."
Tonali’s first game back could be in the Carabao Cup against Nottingham Forest, depending on when the match is scheduled that week. If not, his return might happen in Newcastle's Premier League home game against Tottenham on Sunday, September 1.
Earlier, in May 2024, Tonali was given a suspended two-month ban after admitting to breaching the Football Association's betting rules. This ban will not be enforced if he remains free of further violations for the rest of the season.
Tonali has been training with Newcastle during pre-season as he prepares for his return. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe recently commented, "He's sharp now because he knows his return is close. He will miss the start of the season, but he's a key player for us."
The Premier League kicks off on Friday, August 16, with Newcastle's first match at home against Southampton the following day.
