Umberto Calcagno, President of the Italian Footballers Association, blames Juventus saying the Bianconeri are ‘trampling on Leonardo Bonucci’s dignity’ and warns that the defender must be immediately reintegrated into the team.
Bonucci has been frozen out of the squad and has been training separately from his teammates while Juventus are searching for a new club for him.
The veteran defender has one year left in his contract at the Allianz Stadium but is no longer in Massimiliano Allegri’s plans. He didn’t even join the team for a pre-season tour in the USA in July.
Bonucci has been linked with Fiorentina and Lazio but seems unwilling to leave Juventus.
“The situation is paradoxical. Bonucci has been objectively frozen out of the team and is suffering unlawful conduct, prohibited by the collective agreement. His dignity is being trampled,” AIC President Calcagno told ANSA.
“Juventus must immediately reintegrate him into the team as he’s suffering severe professional damage.
“This situation precludes important opportunities for Bonucci, including the Azzurri jersey,” continued Calcagno.
“This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are many other similar situations, but Bonucci got broad shoulders to go ahead.”
La Gazzetta dello Sport reported last week that Bonucci had formally requested to be reintroduced into the team through an email sent by his lawyer. However, Juventus are not considering changing their stance. It remains to be seen if the Bianconeri will officially react to Calcagno’s interview.