Sandro Tonali’s agent has confessed that the midfielder has a gambling problem.
The Italy international is the subject of an ongoing investigation by Italian authorities investigating suspicious betting behavior.
Tonali and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo were both examined by police in connection with alleged betting violations, while Juventus’ Nicolo Fagioli was also mentioned by prosecutors and suspended for seven months.
Tonali was present in the Italian Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday, and it has been stated that if he is found guilty, he might face a worldwide football suspension.
Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, said during an event at the Italian consulate that his client is an addict.
He said:
“He is playing his most important game – against betting addiction. He’s in shock, he’s very sad. He has to face this situation. He is training at the moment (at Newcastle).
“He told me he trained very well. He can play Saturday.”
Tonali is still available for Newcastle, but it will be interesting to watch whether that changes as the inquiry progresses.
He will not be in Italy’s team for Tuesday’s match against England, having departed the group during his police questioning.
