European Leagues

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali charged with breaking betting rules by FA

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has been charged with misconduct in relation to alleged breaches of the Football Association’s betting rules.

Tonali is alleged to have breached an FA rule 50 times by betting on matches between August 12, 2023 and October 12, 2023.

The 23-year-old has until April 5 to respond.

Tonali was signed by Newcastle for £55m last summer from AC Milan but in October he was hit with a ban for betting on matches while with Milan.

It is sky sports news‘ understanding that Newcastle do not expect these new charges to delay Tonali’s return to playing in August 2024 or his ability to train.

His original suspension was for 10 months. He was also fined around £17,000 (20,000 euros) and ordered to take part in an eight-month course of therapy to address his issues.

His punishment was reduced because he reached a plea bargain with the Italian Prosecutor’s Officer and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).

The ban means Tonali isn’t able to play competitive football again until August 2024, although he is free to train with Newcastle and play in friendlies. He will also be unable to play for Italy at this summer’s Euros.

Tonali admitted to making bets on AC Milan to win games in a hearing at the Italian Federation in Turin. Without his cooperation, Tonali could have faced up to a three-year suspension under FIFA rules from the original breaches.

Last year, Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso confirmed the player had a gambling addiction. It was also reported he would be receiving treatment for this following his ban.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Raphael Onyedika reflects on first UCL Goal

Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika expressed his excitement after scoring his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

Despite Brugge’s 3-1 loss, Onyedika couldn’t hide his pride in the achievement. “I don’t know how to put it, but it’s an amazing feeling to score my first goal in City’s stadium. I’m so proud,” the Nigeria international told Flashcore.com.

Onyedika acknowledged that while Brugge took the lead, they struggled after conceding. “We knew it would be difficult after we got the first goal; we were a bit sloppy. And when we conceded the first goal, they had more momentum and energy, so it was much more difficult for us because of our mistakes.”

The goal will surely be a memorable moment for the young midfielder as he continues his Champions League journey.

Premier League

David Raya doubtful for Arsenal’s clash against Manchester City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that goalkeeper David Raya may miss the Gunners’ crucial Premier League fixture against Manchester City on Sunday.

Raya was absent from Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Girona in the Champions League, with Neto stepping in for his debut after joining on a season-long loan from Bournemouth.

Although Neto conceded the opening goal to Arnaut Danjuma in the 28th minute, Arsenal responded with Jorginho’s penalty and a spectacular goal by rising star Ethan Nwaneri.

Arteta did not provide specific details on Raya’s injury but noted, “He certainly could not play, and he’s injured, and that’s it. We’ll see how it improves.”

When asked whether Neto could continue in Raya’s absence, Arteta expressed confidence in the experienced goalkeeper, stating, “That’s why he’s here, to do that job… I’m very happy that he played and we won again.”

Arsenal will be hoping Raya recovers in time for the vital clash as they look to maintain their strong position in the league.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Tella celebrates first Champions League goal in Bayer Leverkusen win

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has joyfully celebrated his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal after netting in his team’s 2-0 triumph over Sparta Prague on Wednesday night.

The Nigeria international struck in the 64th minute, sealing the victory and helping Leverkusen advance to the Round of 16. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the former Burnley star, who was playing in England’s second-tier league just two years ago.

Taking to social media after the match, Tella shared his excitement with a heartfelt message accompanied by a photo from the game:

“Dreams come true,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised Tella’s performance as the team comfortably secured their place in the next stage of Europe’s elite competition. Tella’s rapid rise continues to inspire fans and players alike as he establishes himself on the European football stage.