Eddie Howe believes that Sandro Tonali can be Newcastle’s Andrea Pirlo – but with an engine to boot.
The Magpies boss admits he saw an immediate likeness to Italy legend Pirlo when watching Tonali play for AC Milan before signing him for £52million in the summer of 2023.
The 24-year-old is only just finding his best form on Tyneside after missing 10 months because of a ban for illegal gambling, handed down by Italian authorities.
But Tonali is now thriving as the conductor at the base of Newcastle’s midfield – they are unbeaten in six matches with him at No 6 – and Howe insists there is more to his game than simply passing.
‘When I first saw Sandro play, there were definite links to Pirlo without a doubt – and it’s not just the hair!’ said Howe, whose side could go fifth with a win at home to Aston Villa today.
‘There’s more to it than that. He’s definitely got those similar qualities in terms of build and style, but the thing that set Sandro apart was that he could do all of those things technically and tactically, but it’s his athleticism as well, his ability to run.
Eddie Howe (left) believes that Sandro Tonali can be Newcastle’s Andrea Pirlo (right)
The 24-year-old is only just finding his best form on Tyneside after missing 10 months
The Magpies boss admits that he saw an immediate likeness to Italy legend Pirlo
‘We’ve seen that in recent games from a defensive viewpoint more than an attacking viewpoint, where he’s sprinting to put out fires, nicking balls, intercepting balls, using his athleticism to track runners. He’s been excellent in that respect and that’s really helped the team.’
There have been various reports emanating from Italy in recent weeks of Tonali wanting a return to his homeland. They have been played down by sources close to the player and the feeling is he wants to repay Newcastle for the support shown during his suspension.
Howe cannot speak highly enough of Tonali’s conduct. ‘He was very low maintenance (during his ban),’ said Howe. ‘He was incredibly helpful to the players that were playing, incredibly supportive of them, and he’s carried that on this year. Now he’s available and is playing very well, but those qualities still exist.
‘He’s still a very good team-mate, he’s still caring about the other players. I can’t speak highly enough of how he’s conducted himself.’
