Former Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has shed light on his controversial transfer to AC Milan in the 2017/2018 season, revealing that Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City were also interested in securing his services at the time.
Speaking on Sky Sport’s “Club” program, Bonucci explained the circumstances surrounding his move to Milan. When asked by Giuseppe Bergomi about his reasons for joining the Rossoneri, Bonucci said, “It was a period when I had argued with some members of the club. I didn’t want to move too far away to closely monitor some health issues of my son.”
The Italian international continued, “Milan had an important project, which later failed. That summer, Mirabelli and Fassone bought 12 players. Then, when everything fell apart at the end of the season, I chose to return to Juventus. When we reconnected, everything was better than before.”
Bonucci also disclosed that Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City had shown interest in him on two occasions. “City approached me both in 2016 and 2017. The first time, Juventus had no intention of selling me, and I didn’t want to leave. The second time, I had already given my word to Milan,” he revealed.
The defender elaborated on his decision to join Milan despite interest from other top clubs: “Montella and Mirabelli had promised me that I would be the team’s point of reference and new captain. In those days, both PSG and City called me, but I had already given my word to Milan. The financial offer was even better, but I had already agreed with Milan.”
Bonucci’s stint at Milan lasted only one season before he returned to Juventus, where he continued to be a key player for several more years
