Sandro Tonali's Agent Opens Up About Midfielder's Sadness After AC Milan Exit and Transfer Journey
Sandro Tonali's Emotional Struggle After Leaving AC Milan
Beppe Riso, the agent of Sandro Tonali, has revealed that the midfielder faced a tough emotional period after his unexpected transfer from AC Milan to Newcastle United. The Italian international found adapting to life in England challenging during his early days at the Magpies, feeling sadness about the move.
Difficulty Adjusting to Premier League Life
Tonali, who grew up supporting AC Milan and played a key role in their Serie A title win, was reluctant when Newcastle offered €67 million for him in the summer of 2023. His agent shared that those first weeks in England were marked by a sense of melancholy as Tonali grappled with leaving behind a club he cherished.
Reasons Behind Departure from Milan
Riso explained that the choice to leave Italy came after sensing a change in AC Milan's character. The club, once steeped in tradition, seemed to lose its historic identity, prompting Tonali and his team to explore new opportunities.
"We made the first step because we realised that Milan were becoming different," Riso told the Colpi da Maestro podcast. "I know Milan well, and this was not giving the same sensations as that historic club. Talking to Sandro, we considered that going to the Premier League was a fascinating challenge. He had courage to go, because he was one of the most important players in the Scudetto-winning side, but he was a visionary."
Finding His Feet in England
Adjusting to new environments has never been quick for Tonali; even his initial season at Milan after moving from Brescia was slow to take off. Despite the initial sadness at Newcastle, he eventually settled in and demonstrated his abilities on the pitch.
"It was very difficult for him, in the first few weeks he was sad, but he got a handle on things and made his mark, as always," Riso said.
Record-Breaking Transfer to Tottenham
Tonali's breakthrough at Newcastle led to a major move three years later when Tottenham Hotspur paid an eye-watering €108 million to sign him. His agent acknowledged the intense pressure that came with such a high-profile transfer.
"It was a crazy move for the numbers, but also for the responsibility," Riso admitted.
Despite the rocky start and painful departure from Italy, Riso believes Tonali is now exactly where he should be, fully embracing his Premier League journey and the challenges it brings.
