Ivan Toney's Euro 2028 Aspirations Hinge on Upcoming Assault Trial

Striker Ivan Toney is set to miss Euro 2028 as his trial for assault is scheduled to kick off on June 12, 2028. Toney appeared at Southwark crown court, where he formally pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from an incident at a Soho nightclub last December. Accusations against him include head-butting and punching Saber Da Silva. During the hearing, Judge Hehir expressed regret over the lengthy wait for Toney's trial, saying, "That’s a long way, I’m sorry about that." He noted the pressures faced by the crown courts, which have led to delays. Toney, dressed in a black cardigan, white shirt, and tie, learned that he is among many awaiting their day in court. The striker was part of Thomas Tuchel's squad for the 2026 World Cup, making impactful appearances against Argentina and France. However, he was charged by the Metropolitan police just weeks after the tournament, and he has since been absent from the squad for the Nations League matches in late September and early October. It's hard to imagine that Tuchel would consider selecting Toney for Euro 2028, especially with an ongoing criminal trial during the tournament’s group stage. Toney has been released on unconditional bail but was advised by the judge to maintain regular communication with his solicitors ahead of the trial. Judge Hehir emphasized the importance of attending court, stating that failing to do so could result in criminal penalties. At Westminster magistrates court in early October, prosecutor Tom Heslop described the altercation, stating that Toney and Da Silva had a verbal exchange before Toney lunged forward, head-butting Da Silva and throwing punches. The complainant reportedly sustained injuries to his nose and fingers. Following his not guilty plea, Toney requested that his case be heard in a crown court. A spokesperson for Toney expressed that while he acknowledges the charges, he is shocked and looks forward to the opportunity to prove his innocence in court. With 10 caps for England, Toney's journey has seen him rise from Northampton to Newcastle and Peterborough, eventually making a mark at Brentford, where he played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League in 2021. In 2024, he transferred to Al-Ahli for a hefty £40 million.