Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali could miss the Champions League clash against former club AC Milan due to injury, reports La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Tyneside club are poised to feature in Europe’s most prestigious tournament for the first time in two decades, but the draw has not been particularly kind to them.
The Magpies have been handed a tantalising Group F draw with a handful of high-profile fixtures to look forward to, including games against Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan.
Newcastle’s debut Champions League fixture since the 2003/04 campaign pits them against Milan, with Tonali’s anticipated return to the San Siro making the headlines.
He completed his big-money switch over the summer but wouldn’t have to wait long to renew acquaintances with the Rossoneri, although his current injury problem could scupper a potential reunion.
Tonali has been omitted from Luciano Spalletti’s 23-man squad for their 2024 European Championship qualifier match against Ukraine later tonight, with the midfielder struggling with muscle fatigue.
Although he was not expected to start the hugely decisive fixture, his injury will come as a blow to the ex-Napoli tactician, whose options in the middle of the park have taken a hit.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe will hope Tonali’s setback is not serious enough to rule him out of the Champions League tie against Milan.
The Magpies have endured an underwhelming start to the 2023/24 campaign, picking up just three points from a possible 12 after losing their last three Premier League games in a row.
They will be hoping for a more positive start to their Champions League campaign, although that task could be more challenging if Tonali is forced to watch from the sidelines.
The Italian has enjoyed a seamless transition to life in the English top flight and quickly established himself as a pivotal part of Howe’s brand of football.
Newcastle will be hoping to turn their fortunes around when they welcome Brentford to St James’ Park this weekend before travelling to Milan for their opening Champions League fixture.
