Sandro Tonali, while facing a looming 10-month ban due to alleged illegal betting activity, received a warm welcome from Newcastle United fans.
Earlier this month, Newcastle confirmed that the 23-year-old midfielder was under investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation for reportedly placing bets on his former team, AC Milan.
He has since admitted to these wagers, which could lead to a 10-month suspension.
In the meantime, ahead of any potential disciplinary action, Tonali was warmly embraced by the Magpies’ supporters at St James’ Park when he came off the bench during his team’s 1-0 loss to Dortmund on Wednesday.
Tonali, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan in a £55 million ($66.6 million) deal in July, has made a positive impact on the North East club so far.
However, his impending ban is a significant setback for Eddie Howe’s team, which aspires to advance in the Champions League and climb the Premier League table.
Should Tonali face a suspension, Newcastle is likely to seek another midfielder during the January transfer window.
Interestingly, Juventus’ Nicolo Fagioli has already been banned for seven months in connection with the ongoing betting scandal.
Tonali and Newcastle will soon learn the midfielder’s fate, but they have a forthcoming game against Wolves on Saturday.
Their next Champions League match is scheduled for November 7, when they face Dortmund in Germany.
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