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NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 07: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leeds United at St James’ Park on January 07, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Italy national team head coach Gennaro Gattuso says that he attempted to bring Sandro Tonali to Napoli during his spell in charge of the Partenopei, but claims that ‘Milan were better’ at the time.
Gattuso praise for Tonali: ‘I only knew how to do one thing, he knows how to do several’
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Tonali broke the deadlock and sent Italy on their way to the World Cup play-off final with his goal during Thursday evening’s 2-0 win over Northern Ireland in Bergamo. The Azzurri will go on to face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Zenica on Tuesday night: A one-legged decider for a spot at the final tournament.
Tonali earned praise from both sets of head coaches after Thursday’s win over Northern Ireland: Michael O’Neill describing him as potentially the best midfielder in the Premier League at the moment.
Gattuso also had nothing but good things to say about the Newcastle United star during his post-match press conference, and says that he tried to bring him to Napoli back in 2020.
“When he went to Milan, he called me and asked if he could take my no.8 jersey, a call that surprised me,” Gattuso told the press after full-time on Thursday night (via TMW).
“I was at Napoli, I tried to bring him with me, but Milan were better,” the CT admitted.
“Over the years, our relationship has continued. There’s always been mutual respect. Sandro is a complete player. I only knew how to do one thing, but he knows how to do several.”
ByPeter Young
Peter Young is a Senior Reporter with Football Italia.
