“We often close in our ourselves” – Newcastle United player says he was wrong, talks about weaknesses and perspective

Eddie Howe, Magpies supporters and everyone around Newcastle United will be waiting excitedly for Sandro Tonali to return to football next season, after the current one was wiped out.

Bans for betting offences have hit the midfielder, and also been a big blow for Newcastle in a season in which they’ve been one of the most hit Premier League sides when it comes to injuries.

Tonali will miss the first few matches for Newcastle in the 2025/25 season, but the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.

As part of his Italian punishment deal, it was agreed Tonali would have treatment for his gambling addiction and also raise awareness within the wider community.

That’s seen him speak at a school this week, and Italy’s Sportmediaset have the quotes.

Speaking to students at a high school, Tonali said: “Maybe there is someone among you who bets and doesn’t say it, because we often close in on ourselves. However, when you gamble and have a high salary, dealing with gambling is a risk around the corner and I was wrong. You don’t stop yourself, others stop you. And you can also compromise friendships, relationships and work. These are some of the biggest risks.”

The footballer is well aware of his fortunate position and how it’s insulated him from some of the worst consequences of a gambling addiction: “I was recently in a factory, I was able to reflect on those who work ten hours a day just to bring home a salary. I have understood many precious things. One above all: if a worker lost his job, his entire family would pay the consequences. Well, I consider myself lucky for this too, but I haven’t lost anything.”

Obviously, the ban wasn’t an initially positive step for the Newcastle United player but it appears to have given him a wider understanding of the world and that may help during the rest of his career.