Italian media explain reason behind Koopmeiners’ lacklustre display vs Milan | OneFootball

Juventus coach Thiago Motta assessed different options to replace the injured Dusan Vlahovic up front against Milan on Saturday, but opted to deploy Teun Koopmeiners as a false nine despite him not being at his best.

The Bianconeri picked up their fourth goalless draw in 13 Serie A games, but the lack of a striker at least partially justified their limited offensive production at the San Siro, as the Old Lady didn’t have a real back up for Vlahovic, forcing Motta to look at alternative solutions.

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Rafael Leao of AC Milan is challenged by Francisco Conceicao and Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on November 23, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The former Bologna manager reportedly considered using Weston McKennie and Timothy Weah as central forwards before eventually deciding to rely on Koopmeiners, who, however, managed a single shot off target during his 90 minutes on the pitch.

Why Koopmeiners was not at his best against Milan

According to Tuttosport, the 26-year-old’s lacklustre display against Paulo Fonseca’s side may also be related to the fact that he played with a high temperature of almost 38 degrees, as he was eager to help his teammates despite not being fully fit.

epa11703811 Ayyoub Bouaddi (R) of Lille and Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus in action during the UEFA Champions League league phase match between Lille OSC and Juventus FC, in Lille, France, 05 November 2024. EPA-EFE/CHRISTOPHE PETIT TESSON

It is still uncertain who Motta will decide to play as a striker in their important Champions League fixture at Aston Villa on Wednesday, but Juventus hope that Koopmeiners’ condition can improve ahead of the game.