Sandro Tonali says £10m Newcastle United player is the most underrated he’s ever played with

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Sandro Tonali has named a surprise Newcastle United star as the most underrated player he has ever played alongside.

The Italian has been sensational for the Magpies this season after returning from his 10-month ban.

Sandro Tonali slotted back into Newcastle United’s midfield and has completely transformed the way Eddie Howe can play. The 25-year-old has formed a fantastic partnership with Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes this season, with the pair linking up beautifully in midfield.

This season has seen Tonali adopt a deeper midfield position, allowing Guimaraes and Joelinton to join attacks, safe in the knowledge that Tonali is there to cover for them in the event of a counter-attack.

Recent reports in Italy have suggested Tonali could leave Newcastle this summer, but it has been confirmed by the player himself that he is happy on Tyneside and wants to repay the club for their support during his ban.

With Tonali set to stay this summer, he has taken the time to praise a Newcastle star whose future looks in serious doubt.

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Sandro Tonali praises Newcastle United teammate Sean Longstaff

The 2024/25 campaign has been a disappointing one for Sean Longstaff. The midfielder lost his place in Newcastle’s starting XI when Tonali returned and has had very few opportunities to win his place back.

After Joelinton’s injury layoff was revealed, Longstaff would have had renewed confidence that he would be getting more minutes, but that has not been the case. Joe Willock took Joelinton’s place in the starting XI for Newcastle’s 1-1 draw against Brighton last Sunday.

Additionally, Lewis Miley is above Longstaff in Newcastle’s pecking order. The chances of him starting another game for the Magpies this season look highly unlikely.

Despite that, Tonali has still praised the 27-year-old for his performances.

During an interview with Futbot Canada, Tonali was asked who his most underrated teammate ever was.

“Sean Longstaff in Newcastle,” he said.

Tonali also said that his debut for Newcastle made him cry. The Italian put in a stellar performance against a quality Aston Villa side, scoring the opening goal of the 5-1 win.

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Sean Longstaff could leave Newcastle United amid Sandro Tonali comments

Although he remained on the bench for it, Longstaff can say he helped Newcastle make history when they won the Carabao Cup in March.

An academy graduate, Longstaff is an inspiration to many young Newcastle fans who want to follow in his footsteps. However, his time on Tyneside could soon come to an end.

Longstaff could leave Newcastle for around £10m this summer, with clubs like Everton and Leeds United interested in his signature.

While there are rumours surrounding his future, selling Longstaff would impact Newcastle’s European registration. The Magpies need at least four homegrown players who came through the youth system. Longstaff is the only player who fits the bill as it stands.

Newcastle will risk losing out on places in their European squad next season if they do decide to sell him and fail to bring any club-trained players in this summer.