Openda ‘didn’t sleep’ before Juventus transfer | OneFootball

New Juventus signing Lois Openda admits he ‘didn’t sleep’ the night before joining Juventus: ‘I can’t wait to play my first game.’

The Belgian striker joined the Bianconeri on an initial loan deal with an option to buy on deadline day.

It was a quick negotiation with his club, former RB Leipzig, and Openda arrived for his medical tests and contract signing on Monday morning, a few hours before the end of the summer transfer window.

The Belgian star revealed what he felt when he learned Juventus were interested in signing him.

Openda couldn’t sleep before joining Juventus

Lois Openda signs for Juventus (Photo: Juventus)

“I was really happy. I knew there was a chance to be here. I didn’t sleep. I was ready to come here, and I’m really happy to be here,” Openda told Juventus’ official website in his first interview since joining the Old Lady.

“I’m really happy to be here. Nice welcome from everyone, the club and the fans, even at the airport. The facilities are really nice; it’s all good for performing, recovering, and being ready for the games.”

How will he help the team, and what are his biggest strengths?

“My biggest strengths are speed and power. I’m a fast player,” he replied.

“I like to use the space, and I hope to bring this to the team, to bring some goals for the team.

Openda ‘can’t wait’ to make Juventus debut

RB Leipzig’s forward Lois Openda (C) struggles for the ball with Inter Milan’s midfielder Piotr Zielinski (R) and Inter Milan’s defender Federico Dimarco during the UEFA Champions League between Inter Milan and RB Leipzig at the Giuseppe Meazza stadium in Milan, Italy, 26 November 2024. EPA-EFE/Daniel Dal Zennaro

“I know a bit about Italian football. I watch this league a lot, and I’ve played against a couple of Serie A teams,” the striker concluded.

“I know it’s not easy to play in Serie A because there are many good teams and strong defences, but I’m happy. I can’t wait to play my first game for the team.”

Openda scored 41 goals in 93 appearances for RB Leipzig.

The 25-year-old made his senior Belgium debut in 2022 and has scored three goals in 27 international appearances.

Openda could make his Juventus debut in the next Serie A game against Inter in Turin on September 13.