Tonali was banned on Thursday by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) for violating prohibitions of betting on matches. Italy’s ban applies globally across matches sanctioned by FIFA and UEFA, meaning Tonali will miss the rest of Newcastle’s 2023-24 season. Tonali will also be ineligible for next summer’s Euro 2024 tournament should Italy qualify.

Tonali’s agent says the Italian footballer is battling a gambling addiction. He admitted to betting on various soccer games, including on games he participated in while playing for AC Milan in Serie A.

Newcastle acquired Tonali in July for approximately €70 million (US$74 million). The transfer was the richest deal in football history for an Italian player.

Plea Deal

The Italian Football Federation says Tonali’s 10-month suspension could be extended to 18 months if he fails to uphold his end of the plea deal.

The agreement includes Tonali undergoing an eight-month counseling plan to address his gambling addiction. Tonali will then make himself available for a minimum of 16 public engagements to discuss the dangers of violating rules prohibiting betting before youth football players and amateur sports associations.

The Federal Prosecutor’s Office will monitor his compliance,” an FIGC statement explained. “In the event of a violation of this agreement, [the Prosecutor’s Office] will take measures within its jurisdiction. These measures would include termination of the agreement and the continuation of disciplinary proceedings before the judicial body of sporting justice.”

Tonali’s betting violations could have resulted in a three-year 메이저토토사이트 ban from the sport, but his cooperation prompted the Italian Football Federation to agree to a plea deal.