Tonali FA Betting Charges: Is Newcastle Midfielder at Risk of Additional Ban?
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is facing additional charges of misconduct by the Football Association (FA) for 50 alleged betting offenses. Tonali, who is already serving a 10-month ban imposed by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), has been accused of breaching the FA’s regulations by placing bets on football matches during the first two months of the 2023-24 season.
The charges issued by the FA cover only a two-month period, while his current ban imposed by the FIGC extends to multiple seasons. Tonali’s original ban was a result of him being found guilty of gambling offenses and suffering from a “gambling illness.” His agent, Beppe Riso, stated that the player was shaken up but determined to fight against the illness.
The FA has charged Tonali with misconduct for allegedly breaching Rule E8 of their betting rules 50 times between August 12, 2023, and October 12, 2023. Tonali has until April 5, 2024, to respond to the charges. The specific games on which Tonali allegedly placed bets have not been disclosed yet.
Currently, Tonali is serving his ban, which prevents him from playing for Newcastle or the Italian national team until August 27, 2024. The ban includes eight months of rehabilitation and therapy, as well as public appearances at amateur clubs, training centers, and addiction charities in Italy. Tonali has been training with Newcastle during his ban and has been praised for his dedication and work rate.
Newcastle has expressed their full support for Tonali and stated that he is complying with the ongoing investigations. The club believes that Tonali’s ability to train and eventually return to playing will not be affected by the new charges. However, they have not commented on whether the charges cover games involving Newcastle.
The outcome of the FA’s investigation and the nature of Tonali’s alleged offenses will determine whether his ban is extended. If found guilty of betting on his own teams, it could be considered an aggravating factor. The FA will decide whether any further ban will be served concurrently or consecutively with the FIGC’s punishment.
Tonali and his representatives have not made any public comments regarding the new charges. In the past, Tonali’s agent expressed gratitude for Newcastle’s support and stated that the player was committed to facing his problem.
For Newcastle, this news adds to the challenges they are already facing this season. With a long injury list, inconsistent form, concerns over breaching financial rules, and their sporting director on gardening leave, Tonali’s absence further complicates their plans. His arrival was meant to ease the burden on their midfield talisman, Bruno Guimaraes, and his potential further ban raises questions about their summer transfer window.
Tonali’s mindset is also a concern, as he misses playing and struggles to replicate the adrenaline rush of matches. The club has provided him with psychological support, but the new charges are another blow for both Tonali and Newcastle during what has been a turbulent campaign.
The FA’s investigation will reveal more details about Tonali’s alleged offenses, and a hearing will determine the consequences of the charges. Tonali’s future and Newcastle’s plans may be impacted depending on the outcome of these proceedings.