Teun Koopmeiners has insisted he has no personal goals for the upcoming season, as he is more focussed on collective, team achievements with Juventus for the 2024-25 season.
The former Atalanta playmaker had his official presentation as a new Juventus player on Tuesday, following his €60m move to the Allianz Stadium at the end of the summer transfer window.
Koopmeiners became the most expensive Serie A player to complete a move this summer, in terms of both sales and arrivals. It was a saga that dragged on for the majority of the summer, but Thiago Motta and Cristiano Giuntoli were finally able to get their man.
Koopmeiners on Juventus excitement and ‘wonderful’ Atalanta
The Dutchman spoke of his excitement to be a Juventus player, and to continue playing in Serie A, a league he has been following closely since childhood.
“These first few days have been great. I had so many expectations that have been met. I am very happy to have started this new adventure,” Koopmeiners said in his first Juventus press conference.
“I have been following the Italian league and Juventus since I was a child. When I arrived in Italy, I saw how exceptional this club is. I always thought it would be great to play here, and when the opportunity came, I thought of nothing else.
“I was convinced and confident that I would make it here. There were ups and downs; however, I always had a lot of confidence, and in the end, that’s exactly what happened. I am focused on the next few weeks.”
Koopmeiners still looks back fondly at his time with Atalanta, despite leaving the club in slightly unfavourable circumstances. He had played a big role in helping La Dea win the Europa League title a few months before his departure.
“I spent wonderful years at Atalanta, where I won an important title. I grew a lot thanks to them; I can say that over the past three years, I have thrived and learned a great deal. Now, I am happy to be here.”
Personal ambitions, Juventus role and shirt number selection
Koopmeiners is not concerned about personal allies this season, as he wants to win titles with his new teammates more than anything.
“What matters most is the team. There are no personal goals; I felt like part of the family right away. I want to integrate as much as possible and always be at my best so I can help the team.”
He also explained what role suits him best.
“Since arriving in Italy, I’ve played in a variety of positions, but my favourite role is definitely as a midfielder. I’m eager to expand my versatility on the field and continue developing into an even more complete player.”
“Right now, my role is to play behind the strikers, and I’m doing well in that position. As for the Champions League, it’s going to be a great game. I know many players from PSV Eindhoven, but our focus has to be on our own game.”
Koopmeiners explained why he decided to take Claudio Marchisio’s old no.8 jersey: “It’s important to me; I’ve always played with this number throughout my career. I’m very grateful to have been given it here.”
Marchisio was one of three players that Koopmeiners cited as his inspirations.
“My idols? I would say Zinedine Zidane, who was an inspiration to many. Andrea Pirlo and Claudio Marchisio also stand out for me, especially since we share a special connection with the number 8.”
Koopmeiners’s conversations with Thiago Motta, message to Juventus fans
He also provided a word for his new supporters.
“I want to thank all the fans for their incredible reception—it was truly amazing. Seeing their passion in action impressed me even more. I embrace the responsibilities that come with playing for this club; it’s an honour. There’s pressure and expectation, which is normal, but as a team, we are determined to meet those expectations.”
Koopmeiners also provided an update on the conversations he has had with coach Thiago Motta and how he expects his first few weeks as a Juventus player to go.
“The coach has given me a warm welcome. His demanding approach is something I really appreciate. I’m feeling positive about the whole team—we have a lot of hunger and energy, and that excites me.”
“I’m fit, having trained intensively, and I feel great. I have no issues in that regard and am ready to play.”
“Right now, it’s important to take things step by step and game by game. We all need time to get to know each other. As we build that understanding, the results will come, and we’ll become more united. It’s clear that our goal is to win, as it is for every athlete.”
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— JuventusFC (@juventusfc) September 10, 2024