Sandro Tonali has revealed that his wife was actually more familiar with London than he was when he first arrived to complete his move to Tottenham Hotspur.
The Italian midfielder joined Spurs from Newcastle United in July for a reported club-record £100million transfer fee, despite failing to score a Premier League goal during the previous campaign. His arrival was part of Tottenham’s huge £340million rebuild after two consecutive 17th-place finishes.
Tonali had attracted interest from several Premier League giants, including Arsenal and Manchester City, but Tottenham eventually secured his signature. His own desire to experience life in London reportedly played a major role in the decision.
The midfielder, who is believed to be earning around £275,000 per week, has already experienced the intensity of his former club’s supporters. When he returned to St James’ Park wearing a Spurs shirt, he was met with a hostile reception before Newcastle went on to win the match 2-0.
Tonali on adapting to London
Speaking to SoccerBible, Tonali admitted that moving to London represented a major change compared with his life in Newcastle.
However, he explained that settling in has been easier because of the warm welcome he received and the support of his family. He described London as a much busier and very different environment, but said the people have helped him feel at home.
Tonali also revealed that having his wife by his side has been particularly helpful, as she already knew the city well before his arrival.
Tonali’s message to young footballers
The Tottenham midfielder also shared an inspiring message for young players hoping to make it in football.
Tonali encouraged aspiring footballers to keep believing in their ambitions regardless of how difficult the journey becomes.
He reflected on his own career, explaining that he dreamed of playing in Serie A from a young age before eventually making his way to the Premier League, which he considers the best league in the world.
His advice was simple: dream big, stay focused on your goals and never give up on your ambitions throughout your career.
