Former Juventus and Milan defender Leonardo Bonucci has announced his retirement at the age of 37, currently playing for Fenerbahce. Bonucci joined Fenerbahce during the January transfer window, following an unsuccessful stint at Union Berlin last summer. The veteran centre-back had ambitions of earning a spot in the EURO 2024 squad, but after being omitted from Luciano Spalletti’s preliminary list, Bonucci decided it was time to call it a day.
“It was a pleasure for me to be a part of this wonderful family,” Bonucci told the official Fenerbahce website. “I tried to show my best, on and off the field. Most importantly, we will fight our last battle tomorrow. I want to finish my career with a cup, and we have the opportunity to become champions tomorrow.”
A Farewell in Istanbul
Ahead of tomorrow’s crucial Super Lig showdown with Istanbulspor, Bonucci was honored with a special jersey signed by all his teammates in Istanbul. However, for Fenerbahce to clinch the title, they also need Galatasaray to lose to Konyaspor.
Bonucci, who turned 37 on May 1, spent the majority of his career at Juventus from 2010 to 2023, with a brief period at Milan during the 2017-18 season. His career also included spells at Inter, Treviso, Pisa, Genoa, and Bari.
The central defender earned 121 caps for Italy, scoring eight goals and playing a pivotal role in Italy’s EURO 2020 triumph. Bonucci’s storied career will be remembered for his leadership, defensive prowess, and contributions to both club and country.
