Napoli's Insigne Claims Bonucci's Move to Milan Has Boosted Confidence for Their Matches With Juve
Napoli's Lorenzo Insigne has claimed the transfer of Leonardo Bonucci to AC Milan will boost the Partenopei's confidence next season when they come up against the now weakened Juventus defence.
Bonucci's spectacular switch to the San Siro caught many by surprise this summer and although the 30-year-old will significantly strengthen Milan next season, Insigne has declared that his former defensive partners - Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli - will now be feeling the loss of a crucial member of their world renowned back three.
NAPLES, ITALY - APRIL 05: Player of SSC Napoli Lorenzo Insigne vies with Juventus FC player Leonardo Bonucci during the TIM Cup match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio San Paolo on April 5, 2017 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Francesco Pecoraro/GettyImages
With his long-term future now committed to Napoli, Insigne admits the club is ready to push for the title in the coming seasons and in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, via Calcio Mercato, the 26-year-old identified a weakness in their biggest rivals for the Serie A.
When asked if Bonucci's move could be advantage for Napoli, he said: "He was critical to Juventus' game, and this should give us extra confidence. Juve has lost certainty in their defence. And with the extra year Barzagli and Chiellini could have lost a little something."
Furthermore, Insigne did admit he was caught off guard by his international teammate's move to the San Siro.
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He added: "I think he surprised everyone, including the timing: in 24 hours they have closed an incredible operation. With him I have a great relationship.
On his own contract extension with the club, he said: "I am proud to have renewed with Napoli, it was an important step. It's a reward for all the sacrifices I made to get here.
"I hope to continue to lend a hand to the team and win something with Napoli."
