Italian football continues to go through turbulent days: Select players Sandro Tonali (23) and Nicolo Zaniolo (24) left the national team camp on Thursday after prosecutors informed them of an investigation into possible illegal gambling. The Italian association FIGC informed in the evening about the departure of both professionals.
“Regardless of the type of investigation,” the players “in this situation are not in a good condition for the upcoming tasks,” the FIGC said in a statement. Both were therefore approved to return to their clubs. Tonali is under contract with Newcastle United, Zaniolo also plays in England for Aston Villa.
Both will miss the Italians’ European Championship qualifiers on Saturday against Malta and on Tuesday against sovereign league leaders England. Italy is second in Group C, but level on points with pursuers Ukraine and North Macedonia.
The news comes just a day after the FIGC’s investigation into Juventus’ Nicolo Fagioli over possible sports betting became public. The Turin public prosecutor’s office is also said to be investigating him. The 22-year-old is suspected of placing bets on illegal websites under various identities. He faces a three-year ban and a fine of 25,000 euros. In principle, the FIGC prohibits professionals from betting on football.