Star Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali banned for 10 months for his involvement in betting

In a recent development, Sandro Tonali, the talented midfielder from Newcastle United, has found himself embroiled in a controversy. According to the head of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), a betting controversy has led him to face a 10-month ban from football. Tonali, who recently made the move from AC Milan to Newcastle, has been implicated in breaching regulations concerning betting on matches within Italy.

This case has brought to light a concerning aspect of the football world, with Tonali now mandated to participate in treatment sessions tailored for individuals with gambling issues. Additionally, he is expected to conduct a series of talks, sharing his personal experiences over the course of the next eight months, as part of an arrangement established with the FIGC.

The plea-bargain agreement, likely to have implications for international football, was officially announced by FIGC President Gabriele Gravina. This decision, unfortunately, signifies that Tonali will be sidelined for the remainder of the club season and the highly anticipated Euro 2024 tournament slated for June and July.

Italian football fails to tackle gambling issues amid strict rules

The 23-year-old midfielder has emerged as the most high-profile casualty of a betting scandal that has sent shockwaves throughout Italian football. Investigations by both legal and sporting authorities have shed light on the use of illicit betting platforms by football players within the country. It was revealed that Tonali had engaged in gambling activities related to matches involving his former club, AC Milan.

It's worth noting that his groundbreaking transfer to Newcastle in a record-breaking 56 million-pound ($67.7 million) deal established him as the most expensive Italian player in history. Furthermore, another prominent football figure, Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli, has accepted a seven-month suspension following his admission of grappling with gambling problems. It's worth noting that the Italian football body is looking to comply with security authorities to control the rise of gambling issues.