It looks like it’s coming closer to an end of an era at Juventus. Reports are indicating that Leonardo Bonucci is on his way out the door.
Bonucci made his intention to retire known this summer. He announced that he would hang up his boots in June of 2024. Most people would have thought that he would have done so in a Juventus kit, but that might not be the case.
The legendary Italian defender has played the majority of his career in Turin. Yet, Bonucci has fallen out of the first team lineup in Max Allegri’s system. There have been reports that two suitors have emerged with interest in bringing in the legendary defender. Union Berlin and Lazio have both expressed interest in buying Bonucci.
Regardless of where Bonnuci ends up, it is looking like the end of the line for one of Juve’s better defenders in the last decade.
As part of the legendary BBC defense, Bonuci worked in tandem with Giorgio Chiellini and Andrew Barzagli to form one of the more formidable defenses in all of Europe. The 36-year-old played 12 seasons in Turin, winning the Scudetto 8 times (stats courtesy of FBref.com). He was also a valuable member of the Italian national team and captained them to a Euro 2020 victory. Overall, he has given everything that he has to club and country.
Bonucci’s leadership will also be missed. As an experienced player, Bonucci was great at keeping his team’s head in the game and helping them overcome challenges while in Turin.
It would be a shame to see Bonucci finish his career with another club. Unfortunately, that’s how business works sometimes. Regardless of where his career ends, he should always be remembered as a great player and Juventus legend.