Bonucci posts message to Chiellini as legendary partnership ends

‘The invisible rope which followed us will keep us tied forever’: Leonardo Bonucci writes an emotional letter to departing Juventus ‘brother’ Giorgio Chiellini as their legendary defensive partnership comes to an end

  • Giorgio Chiellini played his last home game for Juventus before leaving the club 
  • It brings to an end the legendary partnership he formed with Leonardo Bonucci 
  • The pair were essential parts of success for both Juventus and Italy at Euro 2020
  • Chiellini is leaving Juventus while has also retired from international football 
  • Bonucci wrote an emotional letter in tribute of his ‘brother’ Chiellini 

Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has penned an emotional letter to long-time club and country partner Giorgio Chiellini, as their legendary partnership comes to an end.

The Serie A clash with Lazio on Monday marked Chiellini’s last home game for the club which he joined 17 years ago.

Chiellini and Bonucci formed one of the most formidable defensive partnerships in football history, since the latter first joined the club back in 2010.

Leonardo Bonucci’s and Giorgio Chiellini’s legendary partnership is coming to an end

Chiellini received a heroes reception in what was his last home game for Juventus on Monday

Ahead of the 2-2 draw with Lazio, Bonucci, who will take the captain’s armband next season, paid a special tribute to Chiellini.

Alongside a post of the two defensive stalwarts, he wrote: ‘Dear Giorgio. Where to start? 

‘I think it has to be from the end. Today is your day and the day the team, these colours, this dressing room starts to miss you.

‘You have been an example, a guidance, a brother, a friend.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CdnqylRtZUN/

A post shared by Leonardo Bonucci (@bonuccileo19)

The legendary partnership was first introduced in 2010 when Bonucci joined the club

‘We have shared more than 10 years together, we have rejoiced, we have suffered, we have worked hard, we have closed ranks together, we have fought, we have WON.

‘Won a lot with Juve, won something unique with Italy. Being on the pitch alongside you, for me, has been a privilege, an honour.

‘Off the pitch even more so. I have learned from your being ready for anything.

‘Best of luck to you, legend, for what’s to come. Whatever it is, you will always do it as the top of the class.

‘The invisible piece of rope which followed us onto the pitch will keep us tied together forever in my football battles, in the victories and in the more difficult moments.

‘Thank you, Captain. I love you.’

Bonucci first joined Juventus in 2010 and, aside from a season-long spell with Milan, has played alongside Chiellini at club level ever since.

Together, the pair won eight Serie A titles and reached the Champions League final twice

They also played significant roles in helping Italy win the European Championship last year

Together, the pair won eight Serie A titles and enjoyed five Coppa Italia successes. 

They also helped Juventus reach the Champions League final in 2015 and 2017.

The pair were also an essential part of the Italy side which won Euro 2020, with Chiellini as captain and Bonucci scoring the equalising goal against England before their penalty shoot-out exploits. 

After failing to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, Chiellini announced his retirement from international football last month. 

Chiellini was brought off after 17 minutes on Monday night, to mark the 17 seasons the he spent at the club. 

Juventus’ draw with Lazio also marked the last game for Argentine forward Paulo Dybala who could not hold back his emotional as he was brought to tears having played his final home game for the club.  




Share this article

Source: Read Full Article