Although he spent most his career at Juventus, Leonardo Bonucci chose a legendary defender from his former club Milan as his idol, and this man happens to be none other than Alessandro Nesta.
Even during his early days at Bari in the 2009/10 season, the Bianconeri vice-captain was being compared to the 2006 World Cup winner, especially for his vision and ability to play the ball forward.
Sandro started his career with Lazio, and led the club for a historic Scudetto title in 2000 – their last until this day – before sealing a move the Rossoneri in 2002, where he won two Champions League trophies in 2003 and 2007.
In an interview with Sky Sports (via Calciomercato), Bonucci spoke of his high admiration of Nesta.
“Having been one of the strongest defenders, as well as being lucky enough to play for some great teams, we made a similar path,” said the Juventus center back.
“He became a world champion with Italy in 2006 and also won the Champions League with Milan. Alessandro is a role model for me and I still talk about his great interceptions.
”The elegance he used to put on the pitch, the personality, the precision in the advances, the desire to always play football. For me he was an example to watch whenever he took the field.
“I see myself a little in him as he have some similar characteristics. Without taking anything away from some of the other great defenders who have written the history of the sport. Because I see myself more in Nesta, I chose him as my idol,” concluded Bonucci.
The 33-year-old joined Juventus in 2010, becoming a pillar for the Scudetto conquering side under Antonio Conte and then Max Allegri.
Due to a conflict with the club, Leo left the Old Lady in 2017, sealing a shocking move to Milan, before sensationally returning to Turin only a year later.