Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali and Aston Villa’s Nicolo Zaniolo have been released from their duty with the Italian national team after being questioned as part of a betting investigation. The investigation, led by the Turin Public Prosecutor’s Office, is looking into unlicensed betting platforms. Tonali and Zaniolo were interviewed by prosecutors in relation to this probe. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced that the players were allowed to return to their respective clubs due to their inability to focus on upcoming matches. The Federation did not disclose the exact nature of the investigation. Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli has also been placed under investigation and has been given a 12-month ban, with part of it suspended, as well as a fine. Tonali, during a hearing, admitted to making bets on Milan games while playing for the club. This admission could lead to a ban of up to three years under FIFA Code 26, although Tonali’s cooperation in the investigation may mitigate the punishment. Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, stated that his client struggles with a gambling addiction and is seeking help. Gambling is legal in Italy as long as it is conducted on recognized platforms. Offenses related to gambling on unlicensed platforms can be punished with fines or imprisonment. The FIGC’s sporting justice code prohibits players, coaches, and officials from betting on events organized by the FIGC, FIFA, or UEFA. Players who violate this code can receive bans and fines. Tonali and Zaniolo are not directly implicated in any wrongdoing related to their moves to the Premier League, but they are the latest players in England’s top flight to be connected to betting probes. Other players, such as Ivan Toney and Kieran Trippier, have received bans and fines for betting offenses. Tonali, 23, and Zaniolo, 24, have both represented Italy at the international level and were part of the team in 2019. They have now returned to their respective clubs, Newcastle United and Aston Villa.
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