Newcastle United's newest addition Sandro Tonali admits he had a 'positive' experience on Tyneside after jetting to his new club for the first time. The midfielder, 23, touched down at Newcastle Airport on Wednesday but is already back in Milan as he prepares for a short holiday after his Italy under-21 exploits.
Tonali was whisked around the north east in recent days, stopping for photos with fans, viewing a potential new home and getting his first taste of the training ground and stadium he will now ply his trade at. The player, flanked by his partner and agent, was also snapped in the famous black and white shirt before flying back to his native country.
“The first impressions are positive," said Tonali as he landed back in Milan. "I met the people who wanted me at all costs, and who can’t wait to work with me."
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Tonali posted an Instagram message to Newcastle supporters on Thursday, with the caption reading: "Hey Magpies! Thank you for the warm welcome. Excited to start this next chapter of my career, with my new teammates. Can’t wait to play at St. James Park."
The message went down well with Newcastle supporters but Tonali's comment section was soon full of angry AC Milan fans, who still feel betrayed by his sudden summer exit. The youngster is a life long fan of the Rossoneri and has previously gone on the record about never wanting to leave the San Siro.
However, Newcastle's offer proved too good to turn down for both Milan and the player but has left the club's fanbase enraged.
"Milan welcomed me like a son, and I'll never forget it for the rest of my life," Tonali continued outside Linate Airport. "I'll thank them forever. I love everyone who worked with me, and my former team-mates.
"I’ll always watch Milan, and I’ll always be their fan. It was a choice I had to make, and I made it at the right time.”
Tonali will enjoy a short holiday before linking up with his Newcastle team-mates later this month. Eddie Howe will be hoping to see what the midfielder can offer when the Magpies travel to the United States in a few weeks time.
