Igor Tudor unveils Koopmeiners new role, compares David to Trezeguet, shares team news and more

On the eve of Juventus’ final pre-season test in Germany against Borussia Dortmund, head coach Igor Tudor spoke to Tuttosport, sharing his thoughts on the team’s current state, expectations for the new campaign, and several individual players.

Discussing the fact that his squad is largely unchanged from last season — pending potential market developments — Tudor stressed that continuity can be a strength.

“If it stayed like this? It would be more ready, because there’s a year behind us,” he said. “And that’s not to be underestimated. Right now we’re very similar to what we were at the end of last season. We’ll see what happens.

“I’m always happy — because I coach Juventus. I told the boys at the end of the World Cup: rest now, then we come back to work harder, with more desire and more things to do. I don’t want to start with the goal of finishing fourth. And I see where they place us in the starting grids…”

When asked about predictions for the new Serie A season, Tudor acknowledged that many observers expect Juventus to fight for a Champions League spot rather than the Scudetto.

“They put us in third or fourth place. Some even fifth,” he remarked. “Personally, that motivates me a lot. But you also have to look at the fact that Juventus haven’t finished first or second for five years. We have to take that with great motivation — then it’s up to the pitch.”

Explaining the mentality he wants from his players, Tudor emphasised competitiveness in every setting.

“I tell myself and them: everything is fine, but when I get to the pitch it’s like stepping into the ring — you have to win,” he said. “I want to win even when playing cards, a kickabout with friends, or a basketball game. That’s the approach I want. The rest are just proclamations — I know people like them, but I think differently. I have maximum confidence in them.”

The Croatian coach also highlighted why he believes in this group’s potential.

“We’re a beautiful, balanced, organised, tough team — difficult to beat,” he said. “That’s the starting point. I think everyone is motivated by what’s being said, and everyone is competitive. That touches pride. Of course, results matter, and we have to prove it on the pitch. But we’re not starting out for third or fourth place.”

Looking ahead to Serie A, Tudor expects a challenging campaign.

“There are the opponents, and I expect a very difficult season, with strong coaches,” he noted. “Sometimes it happens, sometimes it doesn’t — that’s football. This time it will be complicated.”

Assessing the team’s progress after the German training camp, Tudor underlined the work done.

“It’s always hard to put a percentage on it,” he said. “I think we’ve done a great job and had a good World Cup. This Juventus has its own identity, skill in both phases, and a good mentality. We’ve built something and finished well — that’s given us more awareness and courage, which should not be underestimated.”

The coach also addressed Teun Koopmeiners’ role, revealing that he has been tested as a defensive midfielder.

“In these sessions he’s been trying as a holding midfielder. Against Dortmund, Locatelli and Thuram start, but Koop will play from the first minute against Atalanta, deeper,” Tudor explained. “It wasn’t his request to move back, but he’s a high-level player who can fit anywhere.

“I’m trying him in front of the defence like I did with Khephren and Manuel. He could also be our midfield signing — I hope so, because he’s quality. For him, last year was one of adaptation, with injuries, but I think he can be a real asset.”

On the transfer market, Tudor was frank about his frustrations.

“Playing with the market open drives everyone crazy,” he said. “I hope it ends — the format should be scrapped. For me it’s unacceptable.”

Regarding rumours linking Juventus to PSG’s Randal Kolo Muani, Tudor was cautious.

“I’m not talking to anyone. Kolo is a PSG player. The club is working on everything — ins and outs. He’s important, but now he’s in Paris. For me, the important ones are the two strikers we have — David and Vlahovic.”

On Jonathan David’s scoring potential, Tudor stopped short of guarantees but praised the Canadian’s qualities.

“The pitch will decide,” he said. “What I’ve seen in him is quality — he’s clear-headed, intelligent, and gets to the ball in the box before others. Is he like Trezeguet? A bit different — David had an incredible first touch. But he’s very focused and committed. We’ll see him against Borussia — he’ll start too.”

Juventus face Borussia Dortmund today at 17:30, a match that will close their German pre-season training camp and offer one last test before competitive action resumes.