Leonardo Bonucci made a late appearance at the Allianz Juventus Stadium this evening and his message on Instagram suggests he has accepted this is the end of the road.
The defender has been excluded from their pre-season tour of the United States and all other pre-season friendly matches, including this evening’s 8-0 win against the Next Gen youth team.
Although he was not called up, Bonucci did turn up to the arena during the final stages and signed autographs in the crowd.
He then posted a message on Instagram that felt like his surrender to the inevitable, that he will not play for Juventus again.
“Here I learned a lot, fought hard and dreamed, so much. More than I thought was possible,” wrote the Italy international.
“The reality of today, in a place that aside from everything I continue to perceive as my home, continues to teach me how much love and affection can go beyond situations that are imposed upon you.
“Thank you to all of you Juventini, from the very first day all the way to today!”
Bonucci does not seem intent on hanging up his boots, but a free transfer has been suggested to Serie B side Sampdoria, where the coach is his former Juventus teammate Andrea Pirlo.
Another possible alternative is Lazio, who are playing in the Champions League this season.
The 36-year-old is still under contract with the Bianconeri until June 2024 and has made 502 appearances for the club.