Why Motta replaced Koopmeiners at half-time in Juventus-Cagliari

Club News

October 6, 2024 - 3:45 pm

A report in the Italian press reveals why Juventus coach Thiago Motta decided to bring in Nicolo Fagioli for Teun Koopmeienrs during the interval of the Serie A contest against Cagliari.

The Dutchman was once again in the starting formation, playing as an attacking midfielder behind Dusan Vlahovic.

The former Atalanta man had his moments, albeit his maiden goal for the club is still eluding him.

After the break, Koopmeiners was nowhere to be seen, as Fagioli had taken his place on the pitch.

According to IlBianconero, the 26-year-old was feeling some pain in his side, which prompted the manager’s decision.

The source adds that the Netherlands international was hampered by the same issue during Wednesday’s 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig. Therefore, Motta decided to haul him as a precautionary measure.

Sadly for the Bianconeri, they couldn’t complete the job against the resilient Isolani who managed to snatch a valuable point at the Allianz Stadium.

Dusan Vlahovic had given the home side an early lead from the spot, but Douglas Luiz gave away a late penalty, allowing Razvan Marin to become the first player to score against the Turin-based giants in Serie A this season.

Moreover, Francisco Conceicao received a second booking for diving, leaving the home side with a man down in the final minutes.