Sandro Tonali made no secret of his desire to leave Newcastle United to live in London.
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John Barnes recognises that Sandro Tonali did not leave Newcastle United to better his football career.
The Magpies agreed to sell Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur for a staggering £100million. Few Toon fans were surprised, with the Italian’s agent angling for a move throughout last season.
However, there was an element of bemusement towards Tonali picking Spurs after finishing 17th for two consecutive seasons. The Gazette consistently reported that the 26-year-old and his family desired a move to London - which he confirmed to Italian media on Thursday.
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‘Nothing to do with football’ - John Barnes
Former Newcastle star Barnes noted how Tonali’s exit had “nothing to do” with improving his football career. This is a brutal reality that supporters may need to accept with certain players.
"Except for Liverpool and Manchester United, it’s always been the same,” Barnes said. “For years and years and years, players playing anywhere north of Birmingham want to move to London.
"As much as Newcastle United are doing better than Tottenham, there are foreign players who would rather live in London.
“Foreign players don’t have an allegiance to anywhere in England, even though a move to Liverpool or Manchester United is a bit different, so if a club from London comes calling, then they’re going to go. When people wonder why this move could happen, it’s nothing to do with football.”
Sandro Tonali confirms London truth
On why he left Newcastle, Tonali - who will also pocket £275,000 per week - told reporters: "We decided to make a change, so we are ready for this new adventure. Newcastle wanted the best for me, and I wanted the best deal for Newcastle. So we are all happy, and I am ready for this new challenge.
"Let's say that Roberto De Zerbi did a great job and had a big impact in all this. It is a life choice for my family, because we come from three years at Newcastle, and our lives change with our child's birth. So we decided to change a bit. De Zerbi made a great difference. He did his job, and he did it very well."