Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo, both prominent Italian internationals, found themselves under police scrutiny at Italy’s Coverciano training base due to suspected involvement with illicit digital betting platforms. James Horncastle of The Athletic reported on this development.

The Italian Football Association (FICG) has officially confirmed that both players have been granted leave from their international duties, just as Italy is gearing up for the crucial matches related to the EURO 2024 Qualifiers.

In an official statement, FICG stated, “The Federation announces that this afternoon the Turin Public Prosecutor’s Office has conducted investigations into players, Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Zaniolo, who are currently training with the national team at the Coverciano Federal Training Centre.”

In response to this situation, FICG decided to allow both players to return to their respective club teams. The statement continued, “Regardless of the nature of the events, considering that the two players are not in the necessary condition to face the matches scheduled for the next few days, the Federation has decided, also for their protection, to allow them to return to their respective clubs.”

As per James Horncastle’s investigation, “Article 24 of the FIGC’s sporting justice code prohibits the placing or taking of bets on events organized by the FIGC, FIFA, and UEFA.” A violation of this code could result in severe consequences, such as a three-year ban and a minimum fine of €25,000, which Sandro Tonali may face if found guilty.

In a related incident earlier this year, Brentford forward Ivan Toney faced an eight-month ban for breaching the FA’s betting rules. Toney was suspended until January 16, 2024, and also received a €58,000 fine from the FA.

This development is of concern, especially in the context of Sandro Tonali’s recent transfer to Newcastle, where new owners, PIF, made a significant investment of €70 million in the former AC Milan midfielder. The potential impact of Tonali’s ban, if imposed, on his situation at Newcastle remains uncertain, but it would undoubtedly be a source of concern for the club’s new ownership.