Juventus legend Leonardo Bonucci has opened up about his decision to forgo a move to Manchester City back in 2016. The Manchester club were eager to bring in the Italian defender following Pep Guardiola's appointment.
Bonucci confessed that Guardiola's interest made him genuinely ponder a departure from Juventus.
The former defender recounted:
When it comes to my style of play, the coach who suits me best and truly appreciates building attacks from the back is Guardiola.
That’s why he spent weeks trying to sign me. And believe me, when Guardiola is 'courting' you, it’s not the same as in other cases.
You genuinely start to doubt. It was tough, especially as this was during the Euros, when I needed to keep my focus. But we were still negotiating even during the tournament.
Despite the tantalising prospect of testing his mettle in the Premier League under Guardiola, Bonucci ultimately chose to stay in Turin.
The Italian further explained:
The very thought of leaving Juventus pained me.
One day I would tell myself: 'How wonderful - the Premier League and Guardiola!’ But then I’d quickly remember that I had always dreamed of playing for Juventus.
In the end, the transfer to Manchester City never materialised, and Bonucci continued his career in Italy.
