Italy and Newcastle relief after Tonali injury scare | OneFootball

Reports in Italy claim that medical tests undergone by Sandro Tonali today have ruled out muscle injuries, so the Azzurri star will be available for next week’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.

The MRI scan Sandro Tonali underwent on Thursday ruled out any muscle injuries, according to Italian sources, including Gazzetta.

Positive Tonali injury update for Italy and Newcastle

The Newcastle midfielder will therefore be available for Thursday’s World Cup play-off semifinal between Italy and Northern Ireland.

Tonali was forced to be substituted during Newcastle’s Champions League match against Barcelona on Wednesday, raising concerns that he would not be available for Italy’s crucial match next week.

Besides the positive outcome of today’s tests, Tonali no longer feels pain in his left thigh, but he could still miss the upcoming Premier League match against Sunderland to resume training with the Azzurri next week.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 28: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James’ Park on February 28, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Italy coach Gattuso is expected to release his squad list tomorrow, while players will begin preparations in Coverciano on Monday, March 23.

If Italy beat Northern Ireland in the play-off semifinal on March 26, they’ll meet the winner of the Wales-Bosnia Herzegovina match on March 31.