Why Tonali is not expected to play for Italy against Haaland’s Norway

Gennaro Gattuso admits he’s unlikely to use Sandro Tonali in a World Cup qualifying match against Norway on Sunday, as the Newcastle star is one yellow card away from suspension, so he could miss the playoff semifinals.

Newcastle midfielder Tonali will likely be rested in Italy’s World Cup qualifying fixture against Norway on Sunday.

The Azzurri will first visit Moldova this coming Thursday before hosting Norway at San Siro in the final World Cup qualifying group stage game on Sunday.

Tonali, Andrea Cambiaso and Davide Frattesi are one yellow card away from suspension, so if they are booked against Norway, they’ll miss the next international game.

In Italy’s case, it will likely be a World Cup qualifying playoff semifinal to be played in March 2026.

Italy are three points below Norway in Group I, but Erling Haaland’s side have a much better goal difference, +26 to +10, so they’ll likely get direct access to the 2026 World Cup unless they drop points against Estonia before meeting Italy.

During his press conference on Monday, Gattuso said: “I spoke to Tonali 10 days ago; surely we can’t afford to miss an important player like him for the semifinals. I think it’s difficult that he’ll play against Norway.”

On the other hand, Nicolò Barella will be suspended against Moldova, so he’ll be available against Norway.