Bundesliga football club, Union Berlin, revealed on Friday that it has secured the service of Leonardo Bonucci, who serves as the captain of the Italian national team and previously played for Juventus.
‘At Union, I have the opportunity to continue playing at the highest level and to support the team on its way in three demanding competitions with my experience’ Bonucci revealed in a statement published by the club.
‘I am very much looking forward to this new station in my career.’
Union Berlin’s newest member, Bonucci, brings with him a wealth of Champions League experience, having amassed 84 appearances in the competition. His journey also includes participation in the finals of 2015 and 2017, where Juventus faced losses against Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively.
‘In Leonardo, we are signing a player with a lot of experience’ sporting director Oliver Ruhnert said.
‘He has proven his qualities over many years both nationally and internationally.’
‘We are convinced that with his mentality and his flexibility he will expand our possibilities in defence and raise us to another level once again.’
Throughout his international career, Bonucci has netted a total of eight goals in 121 appearances for Italy. One of his most memorable achievements was leading the Azzurri to victory in Euro 2020.
Recognised as the Italian Footballer of the Year in 2016, Bonucci’s trophy cabinet boasts an impressive collection of nine Serie A titles. Eight of these titles were earned with Juventus, while he secured one during the 2005-06 season with Inter Milan.
Since their promotion in 2019, Union Berlin has steadily progressed, with better league standings each season. Their journey reached its peak last year with a fourth-placed finish, earning them entry into the Champions League.
Union Berlin has made significant strides in strengthening their squad this summer, and Bonucci is among the high-profile signings. The team has also secured the services of German national team members Robin Gosens and Kevin Volland.
In addition to Bonucci, Union Berlin has been proactive in the transfer market this summer. They secured midfielder Lucas Tousart from local rivals Hertha Berlin, finalised Diogo Leite’s loan deal as a permanent signing, and completed loan deals for David Datro Fofana and Brendan Aaronson from the Premier League.
Union Berlin fans may see Bonucci in action as early as this Sunday when the team hosts RB Leipzig.