Newcastle United superstar Sandro Tonali can become even more pivotal for Eddie Howe.
The 25-year-old is probably the most important player at St James’ Park right now, with his efforts in centre-midfield laying the foundation for the rest of the Newcastle United squad to succeed.
Tonali is a ‘beast’ in the middle of the park, while he is just as impressive for his country. He represented Italy on Saturday night, playing the full 90 minutes as they beat Estonia 3-1 in Tallinn.
After the victory, the Italian media hailed Tonali. They were blown away by his performance, with one outlet describing him as a ‘warrior’.
Eddie Howe will have loved Tonali’s display, while he will also have appreciated what the midfield maestro said after the full-time whistle.
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Sandro Tonali calls on Italy to improve even further
After Italy’s 3-1 win over Estonia, Sandro Tonali spoke to Sky Italia.
He was asked about the Azzurri’s improvement, having kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in worrying fashion.
“We’ve all improved many things, that’s for sure. We are not perfect in anything, but we have improved things and will keep doing so,” he said.
“It’s therefore right to look at the past and where we were a few months ago, but we must also believe more in ourselves, show more courage and remember we can keep doing better.
“We’re the ones representing Italy on the pitch, so we are the first who should show confidence in ourselves.”
Sandro Tonali is emerging as a strong voice as Newcastle United weigh up leadership decision
Tonali’s strong comments about the Italy squad needing to believe in themselves more and continue to improve comes at a time when Newcastle United are altering their leadership group.
Callum Wilson is going to be replaced in the Newcastle United leadership group following his departure over the summer. Players have been voting on who will take his place, one year after Bruno Guimaraes and Jacob Murphy were added to the group.
It was recently reported by the Daily Mail that Tonali is one of the candidates to replace Wilson, alongside Joelinton, Fabian Schar and Nick Pope. The players have cast their votes, but the winner is yet to be made public.
Whether Tonali won or not, he is starting to emerge as a leader. Tonali showed his class with Nick Woltemade during Newcastle’s win over Nottingham Forest before the international break, ensuring he savoured his moment in front of the Gallowgate after scoring his penalty.
It was the kind of thing you would ordinarily see someone like Kieran Trippier do, but now it is Tonali who is stepping up and helping those around him.
Tonali leads by example with his performances on the pitch. He never stops running and plays for the team rather than himself. That is why he is so pivotal for Eddie Howe.
Now Tonali is starting to lead with his words too, as he proved after Italy’s win over Estonia. His comments should inspire his international teammates, while Howe will also have been thrilled with his midfielder’s inspiring quotes.
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