Former coach: Oponda needs space to develop his speed, and he also needs time to adapt to Serie A

October 16th. In an interview, Dominic Renson, Juventus forward Oponda’s mentor and technical director of RFC Liège’s youth team, made suggestions on how Juventus can use the Belgian forward and called on the outside world to be patient.

What is your first impression of Oponda?

He was very young at the time, but he already showed a different level. He started training with us when he was a little over ten years old and his talent was obvious.

What can you expect from Oponda’s adventures in Italy?

We look forward to his continued growth. He showed good improvement in the attacking football environment of the Netherlands and then improved again in France against tighter defences.

After that are the Bundesliga and Leipzig.

Yes, there, he maintained the rhythm in a more physical and athletic environment. Things are different now. How do you say

?

In Italy, he will face a more solid defense. This is your symbol, a classic of Italian football. There he will find the space more cramped, so it will take him some time to get used to it.

So, do you think he is suitable for Italian football?

This is a complex issue because any player needs time to adapt to the league and its physical and tactical requirements. Let’s put it this way: He’s a forward who needs space to use his speed and explosiveness.

Many people are asking: Is he really a center?

He often plays that position as a single arrow. But that's when there's space to attack in depth and weave in and out of defences. However, what happens if you put another forward next to him...

?

With a pivot in the middle, a player who can act as a pivot and exploit the space he creates, it's a different story. This is his main talent: getting forward. He has decisive sprinting ability.

Do you think he is currently experiencing some adjustment difficulties?

I say it again, every player needs his or her own time. You must adapt to a new team, new coach, tactical system, offensive movement, new culture, life, and media. That’s a lot, isn’t it? Not everyone is like De Bruyne.

What do you expect from him?

I hope he can show his strength as soon as possible. Now he is going through this difficult period. I don't think a club like Juventus would sign a player of his caliber without getting to know him well beforehand.

Can fans rest assured?

He will give everything. He will follow instructions. And he will train as hard as ever to improve himself and become stronger. He is not a player who comes on the bench and shows dedication and desire to play wherever he goes.