Having attracted a world star like Leonardo Bonucci was celebrated as a transfer coup at Union Berlin in the summer. A few months later, however, the hype has faded. To date, the Italian has not really arrived at the Iron Men, who are in relegation trouble. Lothar Matthäus makes a harsh judgment.
“I think there was a misunderstanding. Leonardo Bonucci, as European champion, is coming to Union Berlin – if they parted ways in the winter, it would be best for both sides,” explained the “Sky” expert before the relegation duel between the Köpenickers and 1. FC Köln (2:0) on Wednesday evening.
The central defender was substituted against Effzeh in the final phase to secure the lead. He has long since lost his regular place.
Matthäus emphasized: “As long as he is there, his name will be asked. They should sit down after the game and find a solution so that Bonucci plays football in Italy again and Union Berlin is not asked every week why Bonucci is on the team Bench sits.”
Appropriately, rumors circulated during the week that linked Bonucci to a lightning escape from Berlin. According to the Italian newspaper “Corriere dello Sport”, the veteran wants to return home, where AS Roma is said to be interested.
The experienced defender has signed with Union until the end of June 2024.
1. FC Union Berlin: Bjelica explains Bonucci role
The new Union coach Nenad Bjelica has hardly relied on Bonucci’s services so far. Before the Cologne game, Urs Fischer’s successor commented on the speculation about a separation.
“Leonardo Bonucci is an outstanding central defender. In Italy he played a lot in a chain of five or four. We are currently playing with a chain of four and starting with Robin Knoche and Diogo Leite. They didn’t do a bad job and that’s why we’re continuing like this,” said Bjelica and added: “If Leonardo stays with us, he will certainly get his chances in the second half of the season.”