Vincenzo Montella Predicts Kenan Yildiz Will Become a Global Star Amid Injury Setback

Montella Discusses Injury Challenges and Praises Yildiz

Turkey head coach Vincenzo Montella has opened up about the difficulty of missing key players Hakan Calhanoglu and Kenan Yildiz ahead of crucial Nations League matches. The Italian manager highlighted the challenge of preparing his team without these stars while also applauding Yildiz's rapid development and exceptional talent.

Impact of Missing Calhanoglu and Yildiz

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Montella admitted that playing against top European teams without playmakers like Calhanoglu and Yildiz creates a big tactical problem. Both players, along with defender Mert Muldur, remain sidelined. This forces younger players into demanding roles sooner than expected.

"Without Calhanoglu and Yildiz, it's not the same Turkey," Montella said. "Initially, Muldur will also be missing. It will be a test for the new players, although with four matches, everything inevitably becomes more difficult."

High Praise for Juventus Talent Kenan Yildiz

Despite Yildiz’s injury, Montella expressed strong confidence in the 21-year-old Juventus attacker’s future. He compared Yildiz’s style to Italian great Alessandro Del Piero and highlighted his technical skill and versatility.

"Kenan Yildiz will become one of the world's top players," Montella declared. "Even when Ale started, comparisons with Baggio were rife. He has the talent; he has the potential of a great player. Perhaps today Kenan isn't a classic number 10, but at that age, you transform, and you can play as a number 10 even starting from the wing and cutting inside."

Emotional Clash Looms Against Italy and Roberto Mancini

Looking ahead to Turkey’s double-header against Italy, Montella spoke about the emotional weight of facing his homeland and former teammate Roberto Mancini. He praised Mancini’s leadership and ability to guide Italy back to success.

"I would have liked to face all of them, but not Italy, let alone twice in a few days. I'll be very emotional, I know," Montella shared. "I played with Mancini at Samp; there’s esteem, respect, and affection. I believe in him; he has the experience and knowledge to bring Italy back to the top. He’s the right person."

Turkey Prepares for Tough Nations League Schedule

Turkey will start their Nations League Group A1 campaign against France before facing Italy in back-to-back fixtures. Montella emphasized that despite losing key players, his squad must stay disciplined to compete with Europe’s best.

"France has a quality and a pool of players that is unmatched by others," Montella said. "They have renewed enthusiasm with Zidane, but it won’t be easy for them either. As for the two matches against Italy, I hope they will be very balanced."

• UEFA Nations League Group A
• Turkey vs France: 25 Sept 2026, 21:45
• Turkey vs Italy: 28 Sept 2026, 21:45