Newcastle star Sandro Tonali charged with breaching FA's betting rules

28 March 2024, 14:08 | Updated: 28 March 2024, 17:31

Newcastle United footballer Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct over alleged breaches of the Football Association's betting rules.

The Italian midfielder is alleged to have broken regulations 50 times by gambling on matches between 12 August and 12 October last year, the FA said.

The 23-year-old, who joined the Magpies for £55m from AC Milan last summer, has until 5 April to respond.

Tonali, an Italy international, is currently serving a 10-month football ban after breaching betting rules in his home nation. He was also fined £17,000.

In a hearing at the Italian Football Federation in Turin, he admitted making bets on AC Milan to win games.

He was initially given an 18-month ban last October by Italian officials - but that was reduced by eight months after he agreed to enter therapy.

Giuseppe Riso, his agent, said he had a gambling addiction.

Had he not cooperated he could have been suspended for up to three years.

Tonali cannot play competitive football until 27 August, meaning he will miss Euro 2024.

But he is free to train with his Newcastle United teammates and play in friendlies.

He scored on his Magpies debut during a 5-1 Premier League demolition of Aston Villa - and had made only 12 appearances in all competitions when his season was cut short.

Newcastle United said in a statement that it "acknowledged" the misconduct charge.

It added: "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."

(c) Sky News 2024: Newcastle star Sandro Tonali charged with breaching FA's betting rules