Leonardo Bonucci to Sue Juventus for Damages Following Move to Union Berlin
Leonardo Bonucci, the 36-year-old Italy international, is taking legal action against his former club, Juventus. The Serie A club is being sued for damages after Bonucci’s move to Bundesliga side Union Berlin on September 1. In response to the lawsuit, Juventus released a statement reaffirming the legitimacy of their actions towards all registered players.
Bonucci had a successful career at Juventus, making over 500 appearances across two spells and winning the Serie A title eight times. However, his playing time decreased significantly last season, with only 16 appearances in the league and nine starts. At the start of pre-season, he was informed that he no longer figured in Massimiliano Allegri’s plans.
Despite expressing his desire to stay at the club, Bonucci was left off the tour of the United States and did not receive a squad number. He claims that he was not provided with adequate training conditions during pre-season, and his legal team intends to argue that this saga damaged his image.
In August, Umberto Calcagno, the president of Italy’s players’ association (AIC), called for Bonucci to be reinstated and accused Juventus of breaching the collective bargaining agreement. Juventus responded by stating that they were fully compliant with the agreement and ready to defend their behavior if necessary.
If Bonucci wins his case, all damages will be donated to Neuroland, a charity that supports families whose children are recovering in the neurosurgical ward of Turin’s Regina Margherita children’s hospital. This cause is particularly close to Bonucci’s heart as one of his sons, Matteo, received care from the ward.
Bonucci joined Union Berlin on a free transfer and is yet to make his debut for the club. He recently announced that he will retire at the end of the current season, adding another layer of significance to his legal battle with Juventus.
In conclusion, Leonardo Bonucci’s decision to take legal action against Juventus for damages following his move to Union Berlin has sparked controversy in the football world. The outcome of this lawsuit will not only affect Bonucci’s future but also potentially set a precedent for player-club relationships in the future. As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes will be on the court’s decision and the impact it may have on the football industry as a whole.
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