Kenan Yildiz reveals why Juventus is a 'paradise for youngsters' and opens up on long-term future plans

Teenage sensation Kenan Yildiz has been vocal in praising Juventus' focus on developing young talent, highlighting how the club provide a nurturing environment for emerging players. Yildiz has been a standout performer for Juventus this season, earning a regular spot in the starting XI under manager Thiago Motta and becoming the subject of transfer interest from big clubs across Europe.

After spending 10 seasons in the Bayern Munich academy, Yildiz moved to Turin to join Juventus in 2022. He made just eight appearances for Juventus Next Gen, the reserve side, in Serie C, Italy's third-tier, and was promoted to the first team ahead of the 2023-24 season. The Turkey international made 32 appearances in all competitions in his debut season at the top level, scoring four goals. This season, he has already matched his tally in 11 fewer games, becoming a bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent Juventus team.

Speaking to Tuttosport (h/t Calciomercato), Yildiz said: "Juventus, a paradise for youngsters? I think the Next Gen [Juve reserve team] is very important , it allows the youngest players to show their value and not suffer too much from the leap to the first team. And it's fantastic that the club has no qualms about focusing on guys like me or [Nicolo] Savona, [Samuel] Mbangula, [Vasilije] Adzic, [Jonas Jakob] Rouhi. Then it's up to us to make sure that the club is satisfied with a choice like this: here we have everything we need to succeed, it's up to us to give our all and repay Juve for their trust. We are a very united group and I get along very well with everyone. I wouldn't say that I get along better with anyone in particular, but obviously being one of the youngest, I spend most of my time with teammates my age."

Yildiz has become one of the hottest young prospects in European football this season, but even his talents have been unable to masquerade the flaws in the Juventus side. After 16 games, the Bianconeri have bagged only 28 points, courtesy of six wins and 10 draws. Their European campaign has been a struggle, too. Juve's next game will be against Cagliari in the Round of 16 of the Coppa Italia, with Motta hoping that Yildiz can work his magic help his team seal a last-four berth.