The situation around Teun Koopmeiners has taken a dramatic turn in recent days, sparking intense reactions among Atalanta fans. Gian Piero Gasperini, the team’s manager, publicly expressed his disappointment, stating, “Everything was going fine until last week, then he decided to join Juventus, and he’s no longer training or playing with us.” This revelation has sent shockwaves through the Bergamo community, as fans grapple with feelings of betrayal and sadness over the sudden change in Koopmeiners’ intentions.
The 25-year-old Dutch midfielder had become a fan favorite during his three years with the club, thanks to his connection to the city of Bergamo and his warm interactions with supporters. He played a prominent role during the celebrations for Atalanta’s Europa League qualification last May, leading chants of love for both the club and the city from the back of an open-top bus. This bond seemed strong, much like that of other Dutch stars in recent years, notably Marten de Roon, the current captain, and Hans Hateboer, who recently moved to Rennes after seven and a half years with Atalanta.
Following Gasperini’s comments, social media erupted with fan reactions, predominantly expressing disappointment and frustration. Many supporters felt let down by Koopmeiners, voicing sentiments such as, “Bergamo gave you everything; we didn’t expect this from you.” Some even called for the club to hold onto the player against his wishes, echoing the sentiments expressed by club director Luca Percassi earlier this summer, who emphasized that a transfer was never part of their plans.
On the other hand, there are fans who feel differently, suggesting that the club should have respected Koopmeiners’ desire to leave, a sentiment he hinted at back in March when he indicated a wish to depart Atalanta during an interview. This current climate contrasts sharply with earlier months when fans resigned themselves to the likelihood of losing him.
As the summer transfer period continues, there is growing pressure on both clubs to reach an agreement. Atalanta has set a firm asking price of €60 million for Koopmeiners, and while that figure remains unchanged, there are whispers that negotiations may not be as rigid as previously thought. The outcome of this saga will be closely watched by both sets of supporters in the coming days.