I don't think this is about the past but more about the future. Bonucci is extended until 2024 and is best friends with the coach and the senatori.
So how does Demiral play? This is what he must be looking at. Bonucci could shoot the ball into our own goal every match and still be the first name on the sheet...
Nah, you're too pessimistic man. Bonucci is not a youngster anymore, so he's got a bit more time left, just for the time of Demiral's full recovery from ACL and catching some form IMO. Those muscle injuries must be happening because of that nasty injury.
Chiellini is done, so that should allow Demiral to play more and more, as long as he stays healthy. Bonucci needs rest too, otherwise he loses focus very quickly and turns into an amateur within seconds.
I'd be more afraid of Tici's annual plusvalenza than actual lack of space for Demiral. The guy is an animal, perfect replacement of Chiellini.