Juventus legend Leonardo Bonucci has admitted that Cristiano Ronaldo and Maurizio Sarri were not the perfect tactical fit during their time together at the club.
Ronaldo spent three seasons at Juventus after joining from Real Madrid, playing under Massimiliano Allegri, Sarri, and Andrea Pirlo. Although the Portuguese superstar enjoyed one of his most productive seasons under Sarri, Bonucci believes the partnership was not completely smooth.
Speaking to Sky Calcio Club, Bonucci explained that Ronaldo’s arrival was meant to take an already strong Juventus team to another level, especially in the Champions League.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Juve was aimed at improving an already strong team,
Bonucci said.
However, the former defender admitted that the main target was not achieved, as Juventus failed to win the Champions League during Ronaldo’s stay.
The goal was to win the Champions League, but it wasn’t achieved,
he added.
Bonucci also pointed out that Ronaldo arrived during a period of change at Juventus. Allegri was coming to the end of his cycle, Sarri later came in with a different tactical approach, and the Covid period also affected the team’s rhythm.
According to Bonucci, Ronaldo always brought energy to the dressing room, but under Sarri, his desire to play with freedom sometimes clashed with the manager’s tactical instructions.
“CR7 has always been an element of energy in the locker room, but during Sarri’s stint, his way of playing led him to act more as an individual than a team player,” Bonucci said.
He added that Sarri arrived at a difficult time, especially with a squad that included Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala, and Douglas Costa.
Meanwhile, Juventus continue to shape their future squad. The club have secured Manuel Locatelli’s deal, while Openda’s transfer has also reportedly been activated. Juventus are also said to be eyeing a possible reunion with Federico Chiesa in January.
For Bonucci, however, the Ronaldo-Sarri era remains a reminder that even great players and good managers do not always fit perfectly together.
