Tonali opens up about lesson from Newcastle fans and ‘future’ under Howe

Italy star Sandro Tonali says Newcastle fans have taught him ‘not to judge’ and feels Eddie Howe ‘will be part’ of his life ‘in the future.’

Italy and Newcastle midfielder Tonali released an interview with Sky Sport Italia, discussing the solid bond he’s created at St. James’ Park with the club and the fans.

“Our fans are very affectionate with everyone, but with me, there’s something extra,” he said.

“I recognise that, and I feel it from them, I always will, because it’s rare for such a bond to be created between a player and fans without really having done anything. I basically just play football. Many people play football, and many play it well, but not everyone has this kind of relationship with their fans. I was, and still am, surprised by the affection I receive.”

Tonali never lacked support from the Newcastle fanbase even during a betting ban in his first year at the club.

“It goes beyond football; it’s a matter of everyday life. Too often, we judge people before really knowing them, and we hurt them,” Tonali said.

“The line between right and wrong is very thin, but Newcastle fans never cross it. They see, they understand, and they think; they don’t judge. Their behaviour has taught me not to judge. Everyone can make mistakes, but that doesn’t mean everyone has the right to judge. I will always acknowledge this credit to Newcastle fans. If today I think this way, it’s because they did the same with me.”

The Italian’s nickname in Newcastle is ‘Midfield Maestro’ and the former Milan star surely enjoys it.

“A lot of people call me this way. I can’t change it. Everyone here calls me that,” he said.

Newcastle coach Howe has also had a big role in Tonali’s three-year spell at the club, and the Italian predicted he’d continue to work with the English coach in the coming years.

“Beyond his qualities as a coach and what he’s given me on the pitch, he’s given me so much as a person,” Tonali concluded.

“I’ll definitely always remember him with affection, and I think he’ll be part of my life in the future as well. In these three years together, he’s helped me a lot, on and off the pitch, and even today he continues to do so. He’s really a good person, and it’s no coincidence that he’s respected by everyone here in Newcastle, fans and players alike.”

Tonali, 25, has provided four assists in 25 appearances with Newcastle this season.

The Italy international is one of Italy’s key players and has started five games from six under new Azzurri coach Gennaro Gattuso.