Raw talent. Two words highlight what Kenan Yildiz has showcased in his career’s infancy. Only 19, he is already a key player for club and country.
Born in Bavaria to a Turkish father and a German mother, Yildiz opted to represent Turkey. In only his second international in November 2023, he scored a stunning goal to help Vincenzo Montella’s men beat Germany 3-2 in a friendly.
The following month, Massimiliano Allegri handed him his first start for Juventus. The result? A sensational goal and an inspired celebration, dedicated to his biggest footballing hero, Alessandro Del Piero. Yildiz would go on to claim the Bianconeri No10 shirt in which ‘Pinturicchio’ electrified.
From that moment on, Kenan showed his talent match after match, both for his country and for Juventus. Today, he is one of the most important players in the Juventus squad, undoubtedly the biggest attacking threat that Tudor will be relying on in the latter stages of the season and at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which will take place in the USA between June and July.
Yildiz factfile
Age: 19
Position: Attacking midfielder, left winger or forward
Nationality: Turkish
Key attributes: Dribbling, pace, finishing, technique
Outstanding achievements
Yildiz, at 18 years and 233 days, became the youngest foreigner to score for Juventus in Serie A. At 19, he became the youngest player to net for the Bianconeri in the Champions League. Overall, he has registered 12 goals for Juve and helped them win the Coppa Italia in 2023/24.
Quotes
“Yildiz is an extraordinary player who is fully focused on his football. He’s not just a pretty face, but also a kind soul. He’s determined to make it to the top. He takes risks and stays behind after every training session to improve his game. With his huge potential, which continues to grow, he’s on track to achieve great things in the game. He’s got the present and the future on his side.”
Vincenzo Montella, Turkey coach
“I believe Yildiz will become a star player in the future, because aside from his talent, he’s a champion at heart. As a player, he’s got immense natural talent, but his best quality is his work ethic and his desire to constantly improve his game and to take things seriously. It’s not often you come across someone his age with that kind of mentality and work ethic.”
Thiago Motta, former Juventus coach
“Yildiz has fantastic qualities. He’s creative, pacey, determined and always gives his all on the pitch. He scores incredible goals and his celebrations are even better.”
Alessandro Del Piero, former Juventus player
