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1.FC Union Berlin and Leonardo Bonucci are going their separate ways with immediate effect. Union have complied with the 36-year-old centre-back’s wish to terminate his contract and join the current Turkish Süper Lig leaders, Fenerbahçe .
The reigning European champion and captain of the Squadra Azzurra moved to Union last summer, having previously spent his entire career in his native Italy, making seven Bundesliga appearances, as among them when he scored a penalty to give Union a 2-1 lead away at Borussia Dortmund. Bonucci also made a further three appearances in the UEFA Champions League. The 36-year-old played his last competitive minutes for Union in the last match before the winter break against 1.FC Köln. He came on in the 68th minute and helped his side defend their lead until the final whistle.
“I certainly came to Union last summer with different expectations,” said Bonucci looking back on his time in Berlin. “Despite the sporting setbacks, it was an extraordinary time for me. Union really are a special club with a lot of closeness and solidarity. I would like to thank everyone at Union and wish them all the best for the future.”
Oliver Ruhnert, director of men’s professional football at 1. FC Union Berlin, meanwhile, had this to say. “Leonardo didn’t get the playing time he had hoped for with us. Nevertheless, he always remained positive and put his personality and experience at the service of the team. We understand his desire to move, which is why we have granted him his request. We wish him all the best and every success at Fenerbahçe and will remember him as a great sportsman.”
