Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup last month but may be given a lifeline due to uncertainty over Iran's participation.
Sandro Tonali could still play at the World Cup this summer despite Italy’s shock exit to Bosnia and Herzegovina last month.
According to The Athletic, Gli Azzurri might be given a lifeline if Iran do not feature at the tournament. As it stands, Iran have qualified and are preparing for their seventh World Cup campaign.
However, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has placed increased doubt over their participation. FIFA have already confirmed that Iran’s three group stage fixtures will not be relocated from the US.
Italy to be given World Cup lifeline?
It is now being reported that FIFA are preparing a potential contingency plan should Iran pull out. US president Donald Trump wrote on social media in March that the Iranian team will be “welcome” - while also stating he does not believe they should play “for their own safety”.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino cooled the temperature by insisting he had received assurances from Trump that Iran’s participation will run smoothly. However, should Iran withdraw, a last-minute play-off featuring two Asian and two European teams would likely take place.
As the highest-ranked (11th) country not to qualify, Italy would almost certainly be included in this format. They are currently managerless, with Gennaro Gattuso stepping down after the penalty shoot-out defeat to Bosnia.
What this could mean for Newcastle United
His agent, Beppe Riso, told Italian media that he expects a resolution after the World Cup - with a move to Manchester City or Arsenal likely. Unfortunately for him, those plans went up in smoke when Italy capitulated to Bosnia.
This was viewed as a small win for Newcastle, who are keen to avoid another Alexander Isak-style saga. If Tonali wishes to leave, the Magpies could shift him on swiftly and focus on their own summer business.
Italy receiving a lifeline would negate this benefit, with the midfielder also having a potential World Cup play-off on the horizon. At present, the situation remains very much up in the air.
What Sandro Tonali’s agent actually said
“That was the aim from the moment he went to England - to try and turn him into a star player,” Riso told Italian media. “I think he’s the Italian player with one of the highest values in the world. I don’t know (whether he will join Man City or Arsenal) but it’s very likely.
“Everyone is waiting for the World Cup. Then a thousand scenarios will unfold, but it all kicks off after the World Cup.”
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