Bonucci dropped for Porto clash after row with Allegri

Juventus stalwart Leonardo Bonucci will watch Wednesday’s Champions League match against FC Porto from the stands.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri confirmed Tuesday that the Italian defender has been dropped for the Round of 16 first-leg clash after a furious argument between the two last week.

“(Bonucci) will not be in the squad tomorrow; it is right to do so on behalf of the club, fans, and team,” Allegri said during a press conference, referring to an apparent shouting match that took place after the Bianconeri’s 4-1 win over Palermo on Friday.

Though the reason for his outburst remains unclear, Bonucci’s is the third such incident in recent months; Paulo Dybala and Stephan Lichtsteiner each showed their frustrations with the bench boss after respective substitutions.

Bonucci, 29, has once again anchored Juventus’ backline with aplomb this season, and Allegri will surely be hoping he doesn’t come to rue the decision to make an example of the veteran centre-back.

In his stead, Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli – both deemed fit by Allegri after recovering from various ailments – are in contention to start Wednesday’s contest at the Estadio do Dragao, while Daniele Rugani and Medhi Benatia will also be hopeful of getting the nod.