Former Italy and Juventus defender, Leonardo Bonucci, has officially announced his retirement from professional football.
A Glorious 19-Year Career
Leonardo Bonucci, aged 37, has decided to hang up his boots after an illustrious 19-year career.
The defender achieved significant success with both his national team, Italy, and club teams, particularly Juventus.
Major Achievements
Bonucci was a pivotal player in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph under Roberto Mancini, scoring in the final at Wembley.
His club career was equally decorated, with eight Serie A titles, four Coppa Italia trophies, and five Italian Super Cups, all primarily with Juventus.
Club Journey
Throughout his career, Bonucci played for several top clubs, including Inter Milan and AC Milan, before concluding his professional journey with Turkish side Fenerbahce.
His most notable tenure was with Juventus, where he made 502 appearances. Bonucci joined Juventus from Bari in 2010 and returned in 2018 after a brief stint with AC Milan.
Social Media Farewell
Bonucci took to social media to confirm his retirement, reflecting on his career with heartfelt words.
“As a child, I dreamed of this story I would tell, promising myself achievements to embrace against the biggest, celebrating, having faith through difficulties with courage. A father, a teammate, a husband, a player. Beyond. Beyond history today, I am me,” he wrote.
Juventus’ Tribute
Juventus paid tribute to Bonucci with a touching statement, acknowledging his significant contribution to the club’s history. “A player who formed an enormous part of our recent history has decided to leave the world of football. Leonardo Bonucci has decided to retire from football, an announcement that touches us deeply, because Leo has his name etched into the Juventus archives. We said goodbye last September, but the thread that binds us cannot be broken. Not even now that Leo has decided to embark on a new chapter in his life, for which we wish him only the best,” the statement read.
Legacy
Leonardo Bonucci leaves behind a legacy of resilience, skill, and leadership. His contributions to both Juventus and Italy have left an indelible mark on the world of football.
As he steps into a new chapter, the football community celebrates his remarkable career and wishes him success in his future endeavors.