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Teun Koopmeiners, the Juventus midfielder who has been recently repurposed as a left centre-back under new manager Luciano Spalletti, has confirmed he is enjoying the positional shift, saying he \u201cfeels comfortable\u201d in the defensive role.<\/p>\n
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The Dutch international\u2019s comments, made to DAZN<\/strong> and reported by TuttoMercatoWeb<\/i>, came shortly after the Derby della Mole stalemate. This marked Koopmeiners\u2019 third game since being deployed in this new defensive capacity, and he is quickly making a mark with his composure and ball-playing abilities from the back.<\/p>\n When asked about his responsibilities, Koopmeiners confirmed that Spalletti grants him significant licence to influence the game from deep, effectively allowing him to initiate attacks from the backline.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cThe coach told me to play behind [in defence], but also to be able to play as a midfielder,\u201d Koopmeiners said. \u201cIf a defender pushes forward, it becomes very difficult for them [the opposition].\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Koopmeiners stressed that the freedom to roam and push forward is what makes the role so enjoyable and effective, allowing him to maximise his technical skill for the team.<\/p>\n \u201cI feel comfortable in this position,\u201d he reiterated. \u201cAs for quality, I can help the team. I want to touch the ball a lot in the game, I can push forward, and in this role, I can do it.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n The positive feedback suggests the Dutch star is fully embracing his tactical evolution under Spalletti, proving his versatility and providing Juventus with a new dimension in their build-up play.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n