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The Dutch coup introduces himself at a press conference: "I only wanted the black and white since I've been in Italy, so many exceptional players... Responsibility? I like them"
After his debut against Roma, it's time for Koopmeiners to introduce himself. The Juventus midfielder answered journalists' questions from the press room at the Allianz Stadium. "Personal goals for goals and assists? No, I want to win" - the Dutchman reiterated. He then revealed many small details, such as the reason behind his choice of the number 8 shirt and his idols who played for the Old Lady .
Juve, Koopmeiners introduces himself: the press conference
"These first few days have been very exciting and my expectations have been met. I'm happy about all of this. Now we've had many days to get to know each other better. Since I was a child I've always watched the big teams and Juventus among them. And when I arrived in Serie A I realized how exceptional the Bianconeri are. I thought several times "I'd like to play for Juve " - Koopmeiners explained in a press conference. " Long negotiations? Yes, it took a bit of time, but I'm happy to be here. The world of football is difficult and not everything is always guaranteed . Often you have to wait, but I was convinced and confident. Now I'm excited for what will happen in the coming weeks in view of the many matches. On his past experience at Atalanta : "I think the most important thing is that I had some great times with the Nerazzurri and last season we even won. I grew up a lot in the Goddess and the city was fantastic with me and my family. I spent some exceptional years. Then, during a player's career, you can have more points of view and it's part of life. Now I'm happy with this new adventure".
"I don't think about goals, I want to win the championship"
On personal goals: "I don't think about reaching the top in terms of assists or goals, but I think about the good of the team first. I want to integrate as much as possible, football goes beyond numbers. I want to feel at my best to give my contribution. Is Juve ready to win the Scudetto? Juve has won many, so this is our goal . But now we have to proceed step by step, game by game. It takes time given that many new players have arrived at the club. We will think about one step at a time. Then obviously it is clear that every player wants to win titles" . On his role: "I also played as a central defender in Holland and when I arrived here in Italy I was immediately put further forward. I still prefer to be a midfielder , but I want to be good at playing in multiple roles. I would like to become an even more complete footballer. I like playing behind the strikers, I have done so in recent years. Then it depends on the game and I can satisfy all the needs".
Koopmeiners and the number 8: "Chosen for a reason"
The midfielder also wanted to send a message to the fans: "I would like to thank everyone for the welcome, which was incredible. I also received a fantastic welcome at the stadium. This is something that footballers want. Of course the expectations are high, but I like the responsibility and it is an honour to play for this club. This type of feeling is what I am looking for. On the choice of the number 8 : "I asked if I could have it because I have always played with this number and I grew up with it. At Atalanta it was not available. I am very grateful that they gave it to me here".
The differences between Motta and Gasperini and the idols
On Thiago Motta and Gasperini : " They have similarities, they both love intense training and pressing during matches. This is fitting for my role. Differences? Perhaps the deployment of the defensive line . I spoke a lot with the coach, he welcomed me straight away and is very demanding. Then also with all the players, I met the whole team before the break for the national teams. I would say that there is a great feeling with everyone. I saw that there is hunger and energy and it excites me. I also spoke with De Ligt and asked him what I should know. I have always wanted to be a leader, even without the captain's armband. This is fundamental for me, everyone must take responsibility. A Juventus player who inspires me? I would say Zidane , but there are several. Another example is Pirlo , then also Marchisio who had the number 8" . Finally a joke about the next Champions League match: " PSV? I know them, I can help my team , but we have to look at ourselves. How do I feel? I'm in shape and I've trained very well. I'm absolutely ready to play from the first minute".
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