PHILADELPHIA – Summer tournaments can create opportunities for players to break out in big ways, and at Juventus, it may be happening before our eyes. Attacker Kenan Yildiz showcased impressive footwork against the Wydad team, scoring twice and contributing to a 4-1 victory. At just 20 years old, this Turkish international is making waves, exhibiting signs of stardom by making a strong impact on the field.
“I would hate to be playing against him if I were the opposition. It seems like he’s enjoying his football at the moment, and I’m sure he’ll progress,” said Lloyd Kelly, a defender for Juventus.
His enjoyment on the pitch greatly enhances his play, as evidenced by his achievement of three goals in two tournament games, placing him in contention for the Club World Cup Golden Boot. Last season, Yildiz proved to be a valuable asset for Juventus, netting 12 goals and assisting on seven others across competitions. Given Juventus’s participation in the Champions League next season with coach Igor Tudor, Yildiz’s role will be pivotal as they strive for aesthetic and impactful gameplay.
Yildiz’s second goal against Wydad exemplified his capability to convert challenging situations into opportunities. As Juventus worked to pull Wydad players out of position, a skidding final ball didn’t faze Yildiz, who fired an impressive shot past the goalkeeper, El Mehdi Benabid.
Both of Yildiz’s shots resulted in goals, and his positioning aided in creating space for teammates. Potentially partnered with Randal Kolo Muani, the Juventus attack could be among the elite in Serie A. Juventus, longing for a return to their former glory without a Scudetto win since the 2019-20 season, will rely heavily on Yildiz, especially amid uncertainty surrounding Dusan Vlahovic’s future.
“I don’t really need to say too much about him. His performances speak for themselves. You can see the quality that he has when he gets on the ball. Before the game, I told him, ‘Go do your thing, get on the ball, create opportunities,’ and that’s just what he did,” added Kelly.
Challenges may arise if Yildiz encounters difficulties, but support from seasoned teammates will be crucial for his success. Conversations like those shared with Kelly can significantly alleviate a young player’s nerves prior to important games.
Currently, Yildiz has 21 caps for Turkey’s senior national team, accumulating valuable experience ahead of a critical season and potentially the 2026 World Cup.
As he continues on this trajectory, Yildiz may secure his place in Juventus’s history, yet his present focus remains on the ongoing Club World Cup, with a crucial match against Manchester City approaching this Thursday. If he can maintain his outstanding form, his contributions will become impossible to overlook.
