Vincenzo Montella Predicts Kenan Yildiz Will Rise to Football's Elite Despite Injury Setback

Turkey head coach Vincenzo Montella spoke about the difficulties his team faces without key players Hakan Calhanoglu and Kenan Yildiz, both sidelined due to injury. Montella highlighted the tactical challenges posed by missing these important playmakers ahead of crucial UEFA Nations League fixtures, including a tough encounter with Italy.

Impact of Missing Key Players

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Montella admitted that playing against top European teams without Calhanoglu and Yildiz presents a significant obstacle. Alongside them, defender Mert Muldur is also unavailable. This forces Montella to rely more heavily on younger players who must step up in high-pressure matches 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."

Backing Juventus Starlet Yildiz for Global Stardom

Despite Yildiz’s current absence, Montella praised the 21-year-old attacker from Juventus, drawing comparisons to Italian legend Alessandro Del Piero. He emphasized Yildiz’s rare technical skills and adaptability, predicting that the young player will soon rank among the world’s best.

"Kenan Yildiz will become one of the world's top players," Montella asserted. "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 Reunion with Italy and Mancini

Montella expressed strong emotions about facing Italy twice in quick succession during the Nations League, especially since the Italian squad is coached by his former Sampdoria teammate Roberto Mancini. He praised Mancini as the perfect figure to guide Italy through rebuilding after recent setbacks.

"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 said. "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."

Preparing for High-Level Competition

Turkey will start their Nations League Group A1 campaign against France before facing Italy consecutively. Montella stressed the need for tactical discipline despite missing influential players, aiming to keep pace with Europe's elite squads.

"France has quality and a pool of players that is unmatched by others," Montella noted. "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 A Fixtures:
• Turkey vs France: 25 Sept 2026, 21:45
• Turkey vs Italy: 28 Sept 2026, 21:45