Newcastle Soccer Star Faces Illegal Gambling SuspensionPremier League Player Could Lose Millions |
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Some gambling issues could soon lead to a suspension and the loss of some big money for one English Premier League soccer star. A probe into the actions of Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali is part of a larger investigation involving soccer players from that country.
Many in European football believe Tonali could be at the center of the investigation that has already seen another player suspended. In July, the 23-year-old signed a five-year, $76 million contract with the club, but could now lose a significant portion of that if he misses a lengthy amount of time.
Part Of A Wider Gambling Investigation
Tonali played for AC Milan in Italy’s Serie A league from 2020-22, helping to earn the club’s first championship in 11 years in 2022. Italian investigators continue looking into gambling among players using “illegal online platforms.”
Prosecutors allege the players were sports betting on soccer matches. That isn’t allowed under Italian law and the country’s Code of Sports Justice notes that “professional footballers are prohibited from gambling on official events organized by FIGC, UEFA, and FIFA and can’t place or receive bets, directly or indirectly.”
Investigators have been able to gain access to data and transactions involving the wagers, according to media reports. Juventus midfielder Nicolò Fagioli has already been suspended for seven months as part of the investigation. Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo has also been named as a suspected player gambler.
According to The Daily Mail, Italian media is reporting that Tonali admitted to investigators that he placed wagers on AC Milan matches while playing for the club. His agent has said Tonali has a gambling addiction and is cooperating with prosecutors. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe says the club is hoping Tonali can work through his issues and one day be back on the pitch.
“I see the person, I see the human, I see the pain and distress,” he told The Guardian. “That’s why my thoughts are always with the player and making sure we look after him. Sandro loves the game and is absolutely devastated.
“His thoughts are with us and our thoughts are with him. Hopefully between us we can make it work. The most important thing is Sandro and his welfare. It’s very easy for people to forget how young he is, the changes he’s had in his life coming from Italy to England. Footballers are human beings.”
*Photo by Pixabay
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