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Luciano Spalletti Compares Juventus Star Kenan Yildiz to PSG's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has expressed high praise for young forward Kenan Yildiz, equating his attacking style to that of Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The Italian coach, who previously worked with Kvaratskhelia during Napoli’s 2022-23 title-winning season, sees a similar creative spark in the Turkish talent.

Shared Traits Highlighted by Spalletti

Spalletti noted that Yildiz operates with a level of unpredictability akin to Kvaratskhelia’s play during his peak at Napoli. Last season, the 21-year-old was central to Juventus’ attack, contributing 14 goals and 10 assists. Unfortunately, Yildiz’s momentum slowed after he suffered a fractured metatarsal in August, limiting him to just 69 minutes on the field this season.

Inventive Play Style Praised

The Juventus boss admires Yildiz’s instinctive and inventive approach, which he believes can break down even the most disciplined defenses in Italy. In an interview with Tuttosport, Spalletti said, "Yildiz makes football shine. His every move is ingenious and breaks the system. When he starts, even he doesn’t necessarily have a plan of what he’ll do next. Sometimes, in training, I see the defenders predict his movement, and they still can’t stop him. He has the madness of invention. For me, he is comparable to Kvaratskhelia."

Maturity Beyond His Years

Spalletti also pointed out Yildiz’s calm demeanor and leadership qualities, which stand out despite his youth and unorthodox playing style. He added, "He needs to play a bit more, but I see similarities in the unpredictability, the way he stays outside of the rules and timing you expect in football. He’s a lovely guy, the boy next door type, but also a leader – one that doesn’t need to talk much."

Looking Ahead to Yildiz’s Return

Juventus currently sit seventh in Serie A as they prepare to face Cagliari after the international break. Spalletti expects Yildiz to return fully by December, provided no further injuries occur. If the manager’s assessment holds true, Yildiz’s comeback could provide the attacking boost Juventus needs to challenge for the title once again.

  • Player: Kenan Yildiz
  • Manager: Luciano Spalletti
  • Comparison: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)
  • Last season stats: 14 goals, 10 assists
  • Injury: Fractured metatarsal in August 2026
  • Current Serie A standing: Juventus 7th place
  • Expected return: December 2026

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