Leonardo Bonucci joins Italy Under-20 coaching staff: “Returning to the Azzurri is a pride”

Leonardo Bonucci’s career has taken a new turn following his retirement from professional football. The former Juventus defender has long been preparing for a coaching career, with the publicly stated dream of one day returning to guide his former club to Champions League glory. Until now, Bonucci had been focusing on studies, refresher courses, and obtaining coaching licenses. However, he is now set to begin his official on-field journey in a coaching role.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has provided Bonucci with his first opportunity, alongside his old friend and colleague Bernardo Corradi, who currently serves as the technical coach for the youth selections. Bonucci is poised to join the group of youth coaches within the FIGC, starting as a collaborator with the Under-20 National Team, which Corradi is managing this season.

Expressing his enthusiasm about this new chapter, Bonucci stated, “I am proud to accept President Gravina’s proposal and ready for this experience. Returning to wear the Azzurri colors will be truly emotional. It’s time for me to observe, study, and learn. The opportunity to do so alongside a great person and a coach with extensive experience working with young players like Bernardo Corradi and his staff will allow me to combine personal knowledge and experiences with the vision of new young Azzurri, hoping to see them realize their dreams. In this journey, I will not forget the values that have enabled me to have a great career: humility, hard work, team spirit, and sacrifice. Thank you again to the president and the coach for this great opportunity.”

FIGC President Gabriele Gravina commented on Bonucci’s appointment, saying, “Leonardo returns home, in a different role, but with the same enthusiasm and love as always for the Azzurri shirt. As we have already done with Daniele De Rossi, we are happy to offer an opportunity for growth to Azzurri champions who embark on a coaching career. I am convinced that Leo can grow significantly in the Azzurri and, at the same time, offer an important contribution to building the pool of federal coaches. The project to strengthen Club Italia continues through the involvement of highly professional and prominent personalities, as we believe in the valuable contribution that former athletes of such high caliber can offer.”