WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 15: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and Newcastle United FC at Molineux on September 15, 2024 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
After playing two full 90-minute matches for Italy during the international break, Tonali showcased his fitness and form, proving he is back to his best after serving a 10-month suspension.
These impressive displays had Newcastle United supporters eager to see him start against Wolves. Despite this, manager Eddie Howe decided to stick with Sean Longstaff in midfield, leaving the £55 million summer signing on the bench. Longstaff, however, struggled in the first half, and Howe was forced to make changes at halftime, bringing on Tonali, along with Joe Willock and Harvey Barnes, while Joelinton and Alexander Isak were substituted.
Tonali’s introduction made an immediate difference. The Italian midfielder, along with the other substitutes, helped Newcastle mount a comeback to secure a 2-1 win. Though Barnes grabbed the headlines with his match-winning goal, Tonali’s influence was just as crucial in turning the tide for Newcastle.
Speaking on BBC’s Match Of The Day 2, Theo Walcott praised the halftime substitutions, singling out Tonali for his composed performance. Walcott remarked how Tonali would drop deep to collect the ball, demonstrating the intelligence, intensity, and quality that Howe had been looking for.
Walcott also highlighted how Willock’s energy and Barnes’ direct style created the space needed to unlock Wolves’ defense and ultimately led to the decisive goal.
Tonali’s arrival onto the pitch helped Newcastle regain control in a midfield that had been overrun in the first half. His calmness under pressure and energetic play helped transform the tempo of the game. Walcott pointed out that Tonali delivered exactly what Newcastle needed to wrestle back control from Wolves.
Before Tonali came on, Newcastle had plenty of the ball but lacked cutting edge and creativity, which allowed Wolves to grow into the game. Tonali’s introduction changed all that. His quick decision-making and willingness to play forward passes injected a sense of urgency that had been missing, especially during Longstaff’s uninspired first half.
Additionally, Tonali’s presence allowed Bruno Guimaraes to play with more freedom. Guimaraes had been quiet for much of the game, but with Tonali taking on more responsibility in midfield, the Brazilian was able to have a greater impact.
Tonali’s influence in this game makes it clear that he should be a regular starter moving forward. Having not been in the Premier League starting XI since October 8th, 2023, it seems vital that Howe reintegrates him, especially with Fulham on the horizon. His ability to control the game and lift the performance of those around him shows he is more than ready to make an impact.
