Eddie Howe has offered some clarity after Sandro Tonali delivered one of his most difficult performances in a Newcastle United shirt during the Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen.
While several players rose to the occasion, especially Anthony Gordon and young Lewis Miley, Tonali struggled to find his usual rhythm across the ninety minutes. His sluggish display raised plenty of questions among fans who were hoping to see the Italian dominate the midfield battle on such an important European night.
After the match, Howe explained that the performance was not simply a case of poor form. Instead, he revealed that Tonali has not been playing at full capacity for a while. According to the manager, the midfielder has endured a very disrupted few months.
He picked up an illness that left him feeling weak, and just when he recovered, he suffered a knock against Tottenham that set him back again.
These constant interruptions have made it difficult for Tonali to build a steady rhythm, and Howe suggested that the lack of consistent playing time is the main reason behind his struggles.
Howe made it clear that Tonali’s fitness is still not where it should be, and he admitted the player looked tired as the game wore on. This naturally affects concentration, movement, and decision-making, all of which are essential for a midfielder who normally plays with intensity and precision.
Newcastle fans watching could see that Tonali was not as sharp as usual, and while the concerns are understandable, Howe encouraged patience as the 24-year-old works toward full match sharpness again.
Still, many supporters have questioned whether he should have completed the full match if he was not truly fit, and that debate will continue as the team heads into a crucial period.
Tonali’s numbers from the game paint a mixed picture. On one hand, his passing was not terrible. He completed 46 of his 53 attempted passes, giving him an 87% success rate, according to Sofascore.
He also created one major chance and delivered two key passes, showing that he remained capable of producing good moments even while out of rhythm. His one cross into the box was successful as well, which shows he still tried to contribute offensively.
Defensively, however, the issues were more obvious. He won only three of his six ground duels, lost his lone aerial duel, and at times looked a step behind the Leverkusen midfielders.
He did make three successful tackles, added an interception, two clearances, and five recoveries, which suggests his work rate did not drop, but the sharpness and timing were missing.
Watching the match live, it was clear Tonali did not look fully comfortable, and the slight hesitation in his actions reinforced Howe’s admission that the player is simply not at 100% at the moment.
Tonali is known for his aggressiveness, control, and confidence on the ball, and when those qualities dim even slightly, it becomes noticeable. His usual calmness under pressure seemed to fade, replaced by moments of hesitation and misplaced passes that are rare for him.
It is unusual to see him appear careless or slow, which is why supporters were quick to voice their concerns online. Yet the explanation Howe provided does bring some understanding.
Fitness and rhythm can make a massive difference to a midfielder who relies heavily on tempo, speed of thought, and constant movement.
Newcastle will need Tonali to return to his best sooner rather than later, especially with important fixtures approaching. His presence brings balance to the midfield, and his creativity helps the team transition quickly from defence to attack.
For now, the hope is that a full week of training and recovery can get him closer to the level fans expect. Howe clearly believes the issue is temporary, and there is confidence inside the club that Tonali will soon rediscover the sharpness that made him such an exciting signing.
If he can regain that rhythm, Newcastle will benefit enormously. For now, patience is key, and supporters will be hoping to see a fresher, more energetic Tonali when the weekend arrives.
