Former Italy and Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has officially retired from professional football at the age of 37, concluding a stellar 19-year career. Bonucci’s illustrious career saw him winning numerous major honors. He was a key part of Roberto Mancini’s squad that triumphed at Euro 2020, where he scored in the final at Wembley. His club career was equally impressive, securing eight Serie A titles, four Coppa Italia crowns, and five Italian Super Cups during his two spells at Juventus. Additionally, Bonucci had stints at Inter Milan, AC Milan, and finished his career at Turkish side Fenerbahce.
Retirement Announcement
Bonucci confirmed his retirement on social media, expressing his gratitude and reflecting on his journey. “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
In response to Bonucci’s announcement, Juventus released a heartfelt statement: “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.” Leonardo Bonucci played 502 times for Juventus, first joining from Bari in 2010 and then returning in 2018 after a season at AC Milan. Bonucci’s career is celebrated for his resilience, leadership, and significant contributions to both club and country, marking the end of an era in football.
