Vincenzo Montella Predicts Bright Future for Kenan Yildiz Despite Injury Setback

Montella Reflects on Turkey’s Challenge Without Key Players

Turkey head coach Vincenzo Montella spoke openly about the tough situation ahead as his team prepares for their Nations League matches missing important players. Both Hakan Calhanoglu and Kenan Yildiz are sidelined due to injury, alongside defender Mert Muldur. This absence creates a significant tactical gap that Montella must address.

He admitted the squad feels different without these leaders. The coach said younger players will have to face intense competition earlier than expected, making the upcoming four games even more demanding.

"Without Calhanoglu and Yildiz, it’s not the same Turkey," Montella acknowledged. "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 Prospect Kenan Yildiz

Even while sidelined, Yildiz earned high accolades from Montella, who compared the young Juventus starlet’s style to Italian great Alessandro Del Piero. The coach highlighted Yildiz’s rare skills and versatility, predicting a rise to football’s top ranks.

"Kenan Yildiz will become one of the world’s top players," Montella said. "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."

Upcoming Matches Stir Emotions for Montella

The upcoming double-header against Italy adds personal weight for Montella. Facing his homeland’s team means confronting former Sampdoria teammate Roberto Mancini, now Italy’s manager. Montella expressed respect and affection for Mancini, praising him as the right leader for Italy’s resurgence.

"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."

Looking Ahead: Turkey vs. France and Italy

Turkey is set to open their Nations League Group A1 campaign against France, followed by a match against Italy. Montella emphasized the need for tactical discipline despite missing key figures.

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

Montella described France as having unmatched quality and depth, noting the renewed energy under Zidane. He expects both matches against Italy to be closely contested.

"France has a quality and a pool of players that is unmatched by others," Montella stated. "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."