Jakarta –
Leonardo Bonucci filed a lawsuit against Juventus. The 36-year-old defender explained the reasons behind the attitude he took towards his former club.
Bonucci is not included in Juventus’ plans this season, who have chosen to continue with younger defenders. Apart from that, the Bianconeri’s attitude is also believed to be wrapped in economic motives.
Juventus wants to ease the salary burden amidst the difficult situation the club is experiencing. It is known that they have to spend 12 million Euros per season on the player’s gross salary. An expensive amount for a ‘reserve player’.
Now, Bonucci has moved to Union Berlin. However, he still does not accept the treatment he received from his former club. He didn’t feel appreciated.
In an interview with Sport Mediaset, he admitted that he was only told on July 13 by two Juventus directors, Cristiano Giuntoli and Giovanni Manna, that “he was no longer part of the club’s plans, and his presence would disrupt the team’s development.”
“It’s a humiliation after playing more than 500 games for the Bianconeri. I have the right to train with the first team regardless of tactical choice, and be prepared physically and in fitness for the new season,” said Bonucci.
“I didn’t get that, I no longer trained with the first team. I felt drained by everything, humiliated and unable to do what I loved most.”
“This (demand) is not about money. If I win, I will donate to charity. Apart from that, I want what I experienced to become an important issue for the Italian Players Association (AIC). I am a member of the board there.”
“It’s an important role because every year, players who don’t have as much influence as me experience this kind of situation and end up compromising in order to continue playing,” explained Bonucci.
Relationship with Massimiliano Allegri
Last season, Bonucci lost his position as Juventus’ main defender. He then brought up his relationship with the coach, including when he left for AC Milan in 2017, before returning a year later.
“After two weeks of not being part of Juventus, it is difficult to think about the past period. I like to think about the old Juventus, who were champions, the real Juventus, which has not been seen in the last two years,” Bonucci continued.
“I have no grudge with Juventus. Juventus is a supporter, a team, a former teammate. I took this step because there are people who will not allow me to retire at Juventus in an honorable and dignified way.”
“This is the second time I’ve been forced to leave Juventus, both times because of the behavior of an individual, and it wasn’t me. What people can see is that I don’t have the relationship with the coach that I expected.”
“It’s not my fault because I have character and I often take a stand for the good of my team and colleagues. This resulted in me not being able to end my career the way I wanted,” said Bonucci.
During 12 seasons defending Juventus, Bonucci has appeared in 502 matches, scoring 37 goals and 10 assists. He won eight Serie A titles, four Coppa Italias and was runner-up in the Champions League twice.
(adp/raw)
2023-09-14 20:00:54
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