Italian media deliver their verdict on ‘hypnotized’ Sandro Tonali’s performance against Israel

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Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali played an important role in Italy’s win over Israel on Monday night.

The 24-year-old was once again in the starting lineup for Italy, with Sandro Tonali starting his fourth consecutive game for his country since his return from suspension.

It is clear that Italy have missed the Newcastle United midfielder, as he played the full 90 minutes as the Azzurri stormed to a 4-1 win over Israel in the Nations League.

The result keeps Italy in top spot, after their 2-2 draw with Belgium last week. Tonali started that game was praised for his performance, with the £55million signing described as a ‘madman’ due to the amount of running he got through.

Sandro Tonali helps Italy beat Israel in the Nations League

And it was a similar story on Monday night in Udine, as Luciano Spalletti’s won 4-1.

They kicked off the scoring from the penalty spot, with Mateo Retegui converting from 12 yards after Newcastle United’s own Sandro Tonali was fouled in the box.

He continues to have an impact in an Italian shirt, even if this moment was nowhere near as dazzling as that flicked assist during the previous international break.

Italy went on to score three more goals, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo getting a brace and Davide Frattesi finding the back of the net.

Italian media praise Sandro Tonali again

It is another 90 minutes in the tank for Tonali, who once again impressed the Italian media with his display.

Sky Italia gave him a score of seven out of 10, which was only bettered by three of his teammates who got half a mark higher.

On Tonali, Sky Italia wrote: “Muscles and character at the disposal of the team. He also has a clear goal opportunity at his disposal, but he passes it to the goalkeeper. But he fights, takes the penalty for the lead, and doesn’t stop running until it’s time to take a shower.”

They finished off their assessment of Tonali by using the word ‘alfiere’, which appears to translate to standard bearer or someone who leads by example.

Stadionews were not as kind with their ratings, giving Tonali a score of 6.5.

On Tonali, they wrote: “Clearly more present than in the match against Belgium. He is a hammer in midfield, recovers many balls, sets up and helps in attack: when the golden opportunity falls on his feet he is hypnotized by the opposing goalkeeper.”

Newcastle need this Tonali against Brighton

It has proven to be another successful international break for Tonali, who is re-establishing himself as a key player for his country after being suspended for so long.

They are relying on him in the middle of the park, with Spalletti taking a different approach to Eddie Howe. While the Newcastle United manager is easing Tonali back into his side, the Italy boss is getting every minute possible out of the former AC Milan star.

Despite playing so much, Tonali is showing no signs of tiredness. He is constantly being praised for his running power, which is extremely encouraging after missing 10 months of his career.

That running power will be vital on Saturday, as Newcastle United take on Brighton at St James’ Park.

After starting Newcastle’s previous two Premier League games, it feels extremely likely that Tonali will start again on Saturday – probably alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.