Juventus: Grading each of the defenders in the 2019-2020 season

CB Leonardo Bonucci

Leonardo Bonucci has been with Juventus since 2010, minus a single season with AC Milan in 2017-2018. The Italian center back has been a star at both the club and international level, and he continues to play a key role as a starter for the Old Lady, recording a team-high 2,224 minutes played last season (nobody else, not even Cristiano Ronaldo, hit 2,000).

Last season, the 32-year-old averaged an interception per game, according to WhoScored.com. Bonucci is well-known as one of the best center backs in the world on the ball and as a passer, averaging over 60 passes per game with a completion percentage hovering around 87-88 percent. It’s no wonder Pep Guardiola is rumored to want him.

Grade: A

RB Mattia de Sciglio

Mattia de Sciglio is one of the most unfairly evaluated players on Serie A and has been a target for criticism from the fan base. Some of it isn’t his fault, as his issues at left back stem from this false narrative that he can play “both sides”. He can play at either left or right back, but it doesn’t mean he should. De Sciglio is better on the right by some margin.

However, the statistics show he’s a great defensive fullback, even if he offers little in the attack, especially on the left. Per FBRef.com, de Sciglio blocked more passes per 90 minutes than any other Juventus defender and was second behind Merih Demiral in tackles won per 90. De Sciglio is a misunderstood player.

Grade: C+