Juventus: first shoulder pad surprised everyone, Koopmeniers thanks

At his “first” on the Juventus bench, Luciano Spalletti surprised everyone by employing Teun Koopmeiners in the’unusual role of central defender. Inserted in the defensive three, the former Atalanta man played a decidedly solid match, so much so that he received compliments and positive reviews.

In fact, this is not the first time the Dutchman has tried his hand at the role of central defender. When he started playing soccer he was a central defender. Only around the age of 14 was he moved to midfield. Luciano Spalletti made a gamble but well aware that the’former Dea had a past as a central defender.

A solution that could unlock Teun Koopmeiners. As known, the midfielder has never convinced since his arrival in Turin, Juventus side. His retreat to defense could be the solution to his own problems. While waiting to see Bremer again, having this option will also come in handy for Luciano Spalletti.

The same Teun Koopmeiners, in an interview with Tuttosport back in the days when Juventus was coached by Thiago Motta, had “proposed” himself for the role of central defender: “If it would be needed for the emergency, I would feel like playing a game at the back. He would be sympathetic”. He was nice but, more importantly, useful to Juventus and, probably, to the Dutchman himself.