Sandro Tonali, a record-breaking acquisition for Newcastle, says that football is “strange” and that he “won’t disguise affection” for the Italian giants.

After playing against his previous team in the Champions League on Tuesday, Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali refused to rule out a return to AC Milan.

The 23-year-old midfielder ended his excellent three-year stay at San Siro by moving from Milan to Newcastle for a club-record £60 million ($75 million) in the summer transfer window. As Newcastle began their 2023–24 Champions League campaign with a 0-0 draw against the Rossoneri in Group F on Tuesday night, Tonali made an emotional homecoming to the Italian club. Following the game, Tonali exposed himself to Newcastle fans’ fury by declaring that Milan still holds a special place in his heart.

WHAT THEY SAID: “Return to AC Milan one day? I don’t know… I’d pay to know my future. Maybe yes, maybe not. Football is strange,” the Newcastle and Italy playmaker told Sport Mediaset.

Tonali added: “I’m not closing the door to AC Milan. I can’t and won’t hide my love, passion for Milan.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Tonali played a total of 72-minutes at San Siro before being replaced by Elliot Anderson. The Magpies will likely view the point as a strong result to kickstart their European voyage, considering the hosts unleashed a total of 25 shots throughout the game without scoring.

IN THREE PHOTOS:

GettyGetty Images

WHAT NEXT FOR NEWCASTLE? Eddie Howe will now prepare his side for a Premier League clash against Sheffield United on Sunday afternoon.