Sandro Tonali reveals contract extension was signed after return from betting ban | OneFootball

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali says his new contract extension at the club was signed after he returned from his ban for betting breaches.

The Italian has extended his contract until the end of 2029, after joining from AC Milan in 2023 for a reported €70 million, before missing ten months following a ban for breaching betting regulations.

Speaking after Newcastle’s 2-0 win against Athletic Club, their third consecutive win in the Champions League, Tonali revealed that the extension was signed after his ban had been completed.

“I’m happy about it, I think this extension was three years ago, after the ban, and I don’t know why last week everyone spoke about this,” the 25-year-old said.

“But I signed after the ban two years ago, for another year after my problem, and I’m happy, not just for one more year here, but I’m happy for the people, for the fans, for every player, every member of the staff here at Newcastle. 

“When I had the ban, when I was off the pitch, I retracted my contract for one year, because it was difficult to stay off the pitch for my fault, for my problem, and all the money for this team. 

“After this, the club spoke to me, spoke with my agent, and I signed for one more year.

“But it’s not for the money, it’s not for one more year, because I have confidence in this team, and this team has confidence in me, so we work together, and I think if you don’t have any problem, you can sign anytime for one year. 

“So I think this is important for me, I’m happy. But every day for me is the same, every day I work to win every game, I work for everybody in Newcastle, I work for my family, work really for everybody here.”

After rising into the top eight of the Champions League table, Tonali and Newcastle face Brentford on Sunday looking to amend their weak form away from home in the Premier League.