Sandro Tonali

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Sandro Tonali's Prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026: A Critical Juncture Amidst Return and Qualification Challenges

Sandro Tonali's ambitions for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are currently shaped by his recent return to football after a betting ban, his performances for Newcastle United, and Italy's challenging qualification path, which includes a playoff in March 2026. Recent reports also suggest a potential move back to Serie A in 2026 to bolster his national team standing.

Return to Play and Club Form:

Tonali officially returned to competitive football on August 28, 2024, following a ten-month ban for breaching Italian betting regulations. He promptly featured for Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup and made his Premier League return a few days later. Since his return, Tonali has re-established himself as a key player for Newcastle, even contributing to their EFL Cup victory in March 2025 and reportedly signing a contract extension until 2029 or 2030. Newcastle's manager, Eddie Howe, has likened his return to a "new signing," highlighting his importance to the squad. Observers have noted his resilience, sharpness, and commitment to rehabilitation during his time away from the pitch.

Italy National Team and World Cup Qualification:

Tonali was quickly recalled to the Italy national squad by manager Luciano Spalletti for Nations League matches in September 2024, indicating his continued importance to the Azzurri. He is seen as a vital component of Italy's midfield, offering a blend of tactical discipline, creativity, and defensive tenacity. His Premier League experience is also expected to add physicality and intensity to the national team.

However, Italy's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is far from guaranteed. They did not secure direct qualification from their UEFA qualifying group (Group I), finishing second behind Norway. This means Italy must navigate a playoff system in March 2026 to earn their spot in the tournament. As of December 2025, Italy will face Northern Ireland in a semi-final playoff and, if successful, will then compete against the winner of the Wales vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina game. The Azzurri have a critical need to avoid a third consecutive World Cup absence.

Potential Serie A Move:

Intriguingly, recent news from December 2025 indicates that Tonali is reportedly considering a move back to Serie A in 2026. This speculation suggests he might believe a return to Italian football would put him in a stronger position to gain the attention of the national team coach and solidify his place ahead of the World Cup, particularly given Newcastle's recent struggles in the Premier League. Juventus and AC Milan are reported to be monitoring his situation.

Overall Analysis of Prospects:

Sandro Tonali's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are strong from an individual standpoint, given his successful return to club and international football and his recognized talent. His sustained performance for Newcastle United since August 2024 demonstrates his fitness and skill. However, his participation hinges directly on Italy's ability to qualify through the demanding playoff system in March 2026. The potential move back to Serie A further underscores his commitment to representing Italy on the biggest stage and his desire to optimize his chances of being a central figure for the Azzurri. Should Italy qualify, Tonali is highly likely to be a key player in their midfield.