Sandro Tonali has reportedly admitted to gambling on Milan games while under contract with the Rossoneri so he could be banned for more than three years, but Italian media predict the suspension will be halved as he’s currently ‘collaborating’ with authorities.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reported on Wednesday morning that Tonali had told the FIGC Prosecutor that he had gambled on Milan games while under contract with the Serie A giants. It’s been confirmed by many other Italian media including Sky Sport Italia.
This means the Newcastle midfielder could be banned for over three years having breached Article 24 of the Code of Sports Conduct. However, Tonali added that he had placed bets on Milan to win games or when he was not eligible to play. Therefore, he may not be suspected of match-fixing.
The former Milan midfielder is cooperating with the Turin and FIGC Prosecutors and has sought help to treat his gambling addiction. This could prompt the FIGC Prosecutor to offer a plea bargain and halve his ban from football.
It was the same defensive strategy adopted by his compatriot Nicolò Fagioli who has recently been banned for seven months.
However, there are differences as Fagioli did not gamble on Juventus‘ matches. Moreover, Fagioli has alleged that Tonali had explained to him how to use an illegal betting platform while on international duty with Italy U21 in 2021.
Sky and La Gazzetta dello Sport report that the worst-case scenario for Tonali would see the Italian midfielder banned for more than three years, but given his collaboration with authorities, he could get a one-year suspension plus several months, at least five, of treatment alternatives and public appearances.
Tonali was heard by the Turin and FIGC Prosecutors on Tuesday and will learn the length of an inevitable suspension in the coming weeks.