Signing for Tottenham, Sandro Tonali has released an emotional personal statement to Newcastle United fans.
The Italy international moving to Spurs in a £100m deal.
Sandro Tonali also becomes easily the highest earner at Tottenham, with reported wages of £15m per year.
Sandro Tonali via his personal social media: “Three years ago I came to Newcastle United, not really knowing what to expect. Today it is time to say goodbye and it is hard to find the right words. I want to start by thanking the club. To the people who work every day and nobody sees at the training ground, everyone who welcomed me and made me feel at home from the very first day.”
The midfielder adding: “Thank you to the staff and my teammates for believing in me and helping me grow. A special mention to the gaffer, Eddie [Howe], who’s been a real guiding figure and who always had my back throughout this journey.”
As for the Newcastle United fans, Sandro Tonali declaring: “Above all, I want to speak directly to the fans. When things were hard for me, you were there. Not for one day did I feel alone. I felt it every time I was at St James’ Park. That is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Together we achieved something this city had been waiting decades for. At Wembley that day, it was special, a historic moment we got to share together. To the fans who never stopped believing, who never stopped cheering for this club, who were there in the hardest times, that trophy was for you.”
The now Tottenham player ending his message: “The game brought me to Newcastle. Today I leave with my wife and our son, born during my time here. This city gave me more than football. It gave me a home, moments I’ll hold onto forever, and people I will always be grateful for.”