Sandro Tonali Suspended for 10 Months for Illicit Sports Betting

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has officially been banned for 10 months for illicit sports betting violations.

In conjunction, Tonali will have to undergo eight months of rehabilitation for what his agent said was a gambling addiction. A large portion of the violation hinges on Tonali's wagers on football matches, including some on AC Milan while he was a member of the club. Tonali said he didn't suit up for any of the games that he wagered on.

Tonali made a record move to Newcastle — which were recently taken over by Saudi Arabia's sovereign fund — for about $67 million this summer. He's played a pivotal role for the Magpies since then, keying the midfield for a team that ranks No. 1 in expected goals (xG) so far this season.

The Italian midfielder played as recently as Wednesday vs. Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League. At the weekend against vs. Crystal Palace, an emotional Tonali made his rounds around St. James Park to a raucous home ovation mere days after news of his impending suspension dropped.

It's unclear when Tonali will officially begin his suspension. The ban means he's banned from both club and international duties until Aug. 2024.

Italian federal regulations ban players from wagering on any football match — whether club or international. Bans can reach up to three years. Tonali was slapped with a much lower ban due to his cooperation, his agent said.

In a corresponding move, international teammate Nicolò Fagioli was banned for seven months and ordered to undergo treatment as part of the same crackdown.