Sandro Tonali has officially returned to the Italy squad after serving a 10-month suspension for betting violations. Italy’s head coach, Luciano Spalletti, announced the 23-man roster for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against France and Israel.
Tonali’s comeback comes at a critical time for the Azzurri as they aim to regain their footing in international competition. The Newcastle United midfielder made his first appearance for Italy since October 2023 in a recent Carabao Cup match, where he helped his club secure a victory against Nottingham Forest.
Joining Tonali in the squad is Atalanta defender Caleb Okoli, who has received his first call-up. Meanwhile, notable absences include Federico Chiesa of Liverpool and Jorginho, as Spalletti opted to leave them out. Juventus forward Moise Kean and Napoli’s Giacomo Raspadori are among those selected to lead the attack.
Italy will face France on September 6 at the Parc des Princes in Paris before traveling to Budapest for their match against Israel on September 9.
Key Squad Selections:
- Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain), Alex Meret (Napoli), Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham)
- Defenders: Alessandro Bastoni (Inter), Raoul Bellanova (Atalanta), Alessandro Buongiorno (Napoli), Caleb Okoli (Leicester), Federico Gatti (Juventus), Giovanni Di Lorenzo (Napoli)
- Midfielders: Sandro Tonali (Newcastle), Davide Frattesi (Inter), Lorenzo Pellegrini (Roma), Samuele Ricci (Torino)
- Attackers: Moise Kean (Fiorentina), Giacomo Raspadori (Napoli), Mateo Retegui (Atalanta)
Tonali’s return marks a significant milestone in his career, following his public battle with gambling addiction and the support he received from Newcastle United during his recovery. As Italy prepares for these crucial matches, all eyes will be on the midfielder’s performance as he reestablishes himself in international football.
read another story on Sandro Tonali here.
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