Koopmeiners: Xavi informed me of central defender role during final training; playing with Van Dijk made it easier

Teun Koopmeiners played a key role in the Netherlands' evening victory. The midfielder, who also features for Juventus, contributed to the 2-1 win against Serbia in the Nations League. He opened the scoring with a first-half free-kick and played the full 90 minutes in a decidedly unusual position.

Head coach Xavi deployed him as a central defender alongside Virgil van Dijk, but granted him considerable freedom to advance during possession. This approach allowed Koopmeiners to consistently participate in build-up play and frequently occupy midfield areas.

Koopmeiners: "It was a bit of a surprise"

Speaking to Sky Sport after the match, the Juventus player recounted how he learned of Xavi's decision to start him in an unfamiliar role:

"Was starting a bit of a surprise? Yes, somewhat. He actually told us during the final training session. We all know our roles, regardless of our position on the field, and what we need to do. During the final training, he told me I would play as a central defender with Van Dijk, and I was ready."

It was a unique tactical choice, but one the player handled naturally. Throughout the game, he often pushed up from the defensive line to support the attack.

"Playing with Van Dijk made it certainly easier"

Koopmeiners mentioned he had some prior experience in that area of the pitch, though he's also been used in much more advanced positions during his career:

"Yes, a little. I've also played more as a number ten or a left-sided full-back. Playing next to another great champion certainly made it easier."

It was a positive evening for the Juventus player, further enhanced by scoring for the Netherlands again. Koopmeiners initiated the scoring with a free-kick from the right that went through the box untouched, surprising Vanja Milinkovic-Savic.

This was also an important personal response, coming in a match where Xavi asked him to apply his versatility to the team and play a role different from his usual one.