Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali voluntarily reduced his salary during the ten months he was suspended for breaching betting regulations.
The Italian joined Newcastle in the summer of 2023 from AC Milan in a €62 million deal, but was later handed a ten-month ban by the Italian authorities for violating gambling rules.
During his spell on the sidelines, Tonali extended his contract until 2029 with an option for a further year, and manager Eddie Howe confirmed that the player had also agreed to a voluntary pay cut.
“A lot happened while he was suspended,” Howe said on Friday in a press conference. “There were many conversations between his representatives and the club. The whole contract situation and the voluntary salary reduction he made say a lot about his mentality and how he conducted himself during that period.”
“The club reached an agreement with him and extended his contract, which is fantastic,” the English manager added.
Since returning to action, Tonali has become a regular starter and a key figure in Newcastle’s resurgence — helping the club secure a place in the Champions League and lift the League Cup last season.
“Sandro is absolutely loved by everyone at the club,” Howe continued. “The fans were incredible with him, both during his suspension and in helping him through his off-field challenges. He needed that support at the time, and now we’re seeing the results. He’s been outstanding since his return.”