By Samuel A. October 18, 2023
More than 40 players have been suspected of being involved in betting scandals that have rocked Italian football. Newcastle midfielder Tonali and Aston Villa winger Zaniolo were among the first names released in the investigation being carried out by Italian authorities along with Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli, and the trio are set to be just the start, followed by a long list of other players who are also caught up in the probe.
The Italy internationals were withdrawn from their country’s Euro 2024 qualifying 3-1 defeat to England at Wembley on Tuesday night.
Newcastle, however, have released a statement to say he is cooperating with the enquiry. “Newcastle United confirm that Sandro Tonali is subject to investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to illegal betting activity. Sandro is fully engaging with the investigation and will continue to cooperate with all relevant authorities. He and his family will continue to receive the club’s full support. Due to this ongoing process, Sandro and Newcastle United are unable to offer further comment at this time.”
The exact level of involvement of those still to be revealed and whether they are in the sights of investigators for specifically placing bets is not totally clear at the moment.
Tonali and Zaniolo were initially included in Italy’s squad for their Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and England, but were released from international duty once allegations emerged on Thursday.
The rules on betting are strict in Italy with athletes banned from betting on their own sports. Anyone found guilty of breaching them could be hit with worldwide suspensions of up to three years. Cooperating with this investigation could, however, help those involved secure lesser sentences.
On the other hand, Juventus youngster, Nicolo Fagioli, is working with the Turin prosecutors leading the investigation after admitting he is addicted to gambling. On Tuesday, the midfielder and the first player named in the probe was served a seven month ban for betting on football. He had five months of a one year ban suspended and was fined 12,500 euros (£10,848), while he agreed to a therapy plan of at least six months to tackle his gambling problem, the Italian body announced. In a statement on its website, the governing body said the 22 year old violated the rule “that prohibits betting on football events organised by FIGC, UEFA and FIFA”.
What becomes of Premier League duo Zaniolo and Tonali is, however, yet to be confirmed, as investigations continue.
