Sandro Tonali has been growing in stature at Newcastle United since his return from his long-term suspension.
That’s been quite evident in his performances for the Magpies and how he is imposing himself for Italy too.
There remains regret in Italy that AC Milan lost a leader-like figure to Newcastle, but there is also a sense of acknowledgement that the midfielder is growing at St James’ Park.
Journalist Riccardo Trevisani has now given his views about that in a chat with Cronache di Spogliatoio, as relayed by RadioRossonera.
He stated that the current version of Tonali is better than what Milan had during their title winning season under Stefano Pioli.
“In my opinion, it is a version of Tonali superior to the year of the Scudetto, the one of the Parc des Princes and the one with Israel is superior to that of the last 15 of the championship in the year of the Scudetto of Milan.
“Tonali is immense for what he is doing. It is incredible, the game can last as long as he wants. He made two runs in the 90th minute with a pace frequency, a strength that is truly incredible.
“When he starts, his engine starts at 1000mph and when he turns it off it goes at a thousand the same. Maybe he still has to vent some of the anger from what he has accumulated since last year.”
While Serie A is a much more tactical league, the Premier League involves more running and sprinting and it is clear to see why Tonali now has an increased work-rate and is covering more ground.
It clearly shows that he’s adapted very well to the league and is using those improved abilities everywhere he plays.
For someone who is still only 24, that is a big positive. If Tonali stays fit, he is going to be a huge player for Newcastle United and Italy.