Juventus manager Thiago Motta has taken full responsibility for Teun Koopmeiners’ underwhelming performances following the team’s 2-2 draw against Venezia in Serie A. The result marked Juventus’ fourth consecutive league draw, leaving them nine points behind league leaders Atalanta.
“The responsibility is all mine. I need to put him in a better position to play and express his level. He’s a great player, and it’s important for me to have him,” Motta [**stated**](https://www.calciomercato.com/news/koopmeiners-delude-ancora-motta-devo-metterlo-in-condizione-migl-43086) after the match. This comes as Koopmeiners, a high-profile summer signing from Atalanta for nearly 60 million euros, continues to struggle to replicate his impressive form from his time with the Bergamo club.
The Dutch midfielder himself acknowledges the challenges he’s facing. “We need to grow as a group. I’m playing a bit differently compared to before, but I’m not worried. I have confidence,” Koopmeiners said. However, his performance against Venezia, where he recorded zero shots, dribbles, and duels won, has intensified the debate surrounding his role in the team.
Koopmeiners’ positioning behind the striker, with Yildiz moved to the left, has become a topic of heated discussion among fans and pundits alike. The player himself has expressed a desire to play close to striker Vlahovic, believing it allows him to be more dangerous in the box and provide assists. However, he also acknowledges the need to contribute defensively and in midfield.
As Juventus struggles to find the right formula, some supporters are calling for a tactical shake-up. Suggestions include giving more playing time to Mbangula, moving Yildiz to a central role, and rotating the midfield more frequently. This could potentially address the team’s defensive needs in the transfer market without relying on Fagioli.
Despite the growing pressure, Motta seems determined to persist with Koopmeiners in his current role, particularly valuing his ability to lead the press. However, as Juventus falls further behind in the title race, the question remains: how long can they afford for Koopmeiners to find his feet in this new system?