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Bonucci reveals choice to reject Pep Guardiola and Manchester City
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Decisions made by players can shape the course of their careers and leave a lasting impact on the sport’s landscape.
One such pivotal moment occurred in 2016 when Leonardo Bonucci, the seasoned Italian defender, faced the opportunity to join Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in a blockbuster move.
However, Bonucci opted to stay in Serie A, turning down a mega-money deal and the chance to be mentored by one of the game’s most revered managers.
In a recent revelation, the Union Berlin defender disclosed that despite the allure of the Premier League and the prospect of working with Guardiola, he harbors no regrets about the path he chose.
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The Almost Move to Manchester City
In 2016, the footballing world was abuzz with the news that Manchester City was on the brink of securing Leonardo Bonucci’s services.
The Premier League giants reportedly tabled a staggering offer of almost £100 million to Juventus, Bonucci’s then-club.
The deal was tantalizingly close to materializing, yet the Italian international, in collaboration with Juventus, made the decision to stay put in Italy.
This choice, undoubtedly a difficult one, demonstrated Bonucci’s loyalty to his homeland and a commitment to the Serie A.
Bonucci’s Revelation
In a recent interview with The Sun, Leonardo Bonucci shed light on the events of 2016 and his subsequent conversations with Manchester City.
He admitted that the prospect of being managed by Pep Guardiola was a tempting one, acknowledging that it could have been a significant step in his career.
Bonucci stated, “Being managed by Guardiola would have been a great achievement because he would have improved me.”
However, he emphasized that, despite the allure of a new challenge in the Premier League, he couldn’t bring himself to leave Juventus at that time.
2017: Another Opportunity and the Unfolding of Events
The footballing saga between Bonucci and Manchester City did not conclude in 2016. The following year, in 2017, after Juventus made him available for transfer, talks reignited between the player and the Premier League club.
Despite the renewed interest, the stars did not align for a move, and Bonucci remained in Serie A.
No Regrets – A Career Filled with Success
Leonardo Bonucci, now plying his trade with Union Berlin, reflects on his career with a sense of fulfillment.
While acknowledging that working under Guardiola could have been a remarkable experience, he remains content with the trophies, individual awards, and the Euro triumph he has achieved in his career.
Bonucci’s decision to prioritize his career in Italy over the allure of the Premier League and Guardiola’s tutelage showcases the importance of personal choices in a footballer’s journey.