Qudus Salihu### Sandro Tonali Breaks Silence After Abruptly Leaving Italy National Team Camp – And Fans Are Dragging Him MercilesslyNewcastle United star Sandro Tonali has finally spoken out after shockingly abandoning Italy’s national team camp ahead of crucial November 2025 matches, citing a truly bizarre and personal reason that’s left the football world stunned.The 25-year-old midfielder, a key figure in Luciano Spalletti’s Azzurri squad, withdrew suddenly, reportedly due to an overwhelming fear of flying triggered by recent turbulence experiences – a phobia he claims has worsened despite previous international travels. Sources close to the camp say Tonali broke down, insisting he couldn’t board flights for upcoming fixtures, forcing Italy to release him back to Tyneside.In his first public comments via Instagram, Tonali said: “It’s not easy to explain, but anxiety has taken over. I love representing my country more than anything, but right now my mind won’t let me. I’m working on it with professionals – this isn’t an excuse, it’s real. Thanks for the support, I’ll be back stronger.”The revelation has sparked fury online. Italian fans accuse him of dodging duty during a vital Nations League push, with X (formerly Twitter) exploding: “Tonali scared of planes but fine with £200k/week? Pathetic excuse!” one viral post read, amassing 50k likes. Others mocked: “Bizarre reason? More like coward. Drop him forever!” Hashtags like #TonaliVergogna (Tonali Shame) trended, with memes comparing him to “hiding under the bed.”Critics point to his history of resilience post-2023 betting ban, questioning why phobia wasn’t addressed sooner. Supporters defend him, highlighting mental health stigma in football.Italy, already injury-hit, now scramble without their midfield anchor. Tonali returns to Newcastle amid backlash – will this “bizarre” exit haunt his Azzurri career
Mustapha Sheidu
Qudus Salihu
Rabiu Aminu
