Kenan Yildiz earns lofty praise as ex-Juventus striker hails Turkish star’s rise

Kenan Yildiz is fast becoming one of the most talked-about young players in European football, and the latest voice to join the chorus of admiration is none other than former Juventus striker Fernando Llorente. The Spanish forward, who enjoyed a successful spell with the Bianconeri, has openly praised the Turkish wonderkid, comparing him to club icon Alessandro Del Piero and even to Michael Laudrup, the former Barcelona and Real Madrid great.

For Yildiz, who only turned 20 this year, such comparisons highlight just how quickly he has risen through the ranks to establish himself not only as Juventus’ brightest attacking hope but also as one of Serie A’s most exciting talents.

Kenan Yildiz compared to Del Piero and Laudrup

Llorente’s words will resonate strongly with Juventus fans who are always eager to see young players carry the torch of the club’s greats. Speaking to Tuttosport after watching Juventus face Villarreal in the Champions League, Llorente couldn’t hide his excitement about Yildiz’s style of play.

“With the foot he has, he would have helped me a lot. Someone like him would have helped me score even more goals,” Llorente admitted. “He’s improving year after year, with every match confirming his worth and boosting his self-esteem. That’s crucial for a young player. He reminds me of Del Piero, but it’s too early to make such a big comparison.”

The Spaniard went further, likening Yildiz’s movement and vision to Michael Laudrup, a player Llorente idolised as a child. “He moves like Laudrup, who was one of my childhood idols. Cruijff’s Barcelona was my inspiration, and I’ve always admired talent—players who can imagine things before they happen. Kenan has that.”

To be mentioned in the same breath as Del Piero and Laudrup is no small compliment. For a 20-year-old who is still developing, it underlines the unique qualities that Yildiz already brings to the Juventus attack.

A rapid rise at Juventus

Villarreal CF v Juventus – UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 Yildiz

Yildiz’s breakthrough has been nothing short of remarkable. Since stepping up from Juventus’ youth system to the senior squad, the Turkish international has amassed over 90 senior appearances, scoring 18 goals and providing 11 assists.

Those numbers only tell part of the story. His blend of technical flair, composure under pressure, and ability to unlock defences has made him a constant threat in Serie A. For fans, he is not just another academy graduate filling a squad role—he is someone capable of turning games on his own, much like Juve legends of the past.

His rise also comes at a time when Juventus is rebuilding under Igor Tudor, who has been quick to highlight Yildiz’s maturity. The coach has often remarked that Yildiz rarely needs correcting in training—an impressive trait for someone still so young.

Praise from teammates and Italian greats

Yildiz

Yildiz’s growing reputation is not only supported by former stars like Llorente. Inside the Juventus dressing room, he has already earned respect. Defender Bremer recently described him as “our Lamine Yamal,” drawing a parallel with Barcelona’s teenage sensation, while praising his dribbling and creativity.

Former Italy striker Aldo Serena also weighed in, praising Yildiz’s mentality and unique identity as a forward. “He has everything. He doesn’t need to chase anyone to prove his quality,” Serena said. “He’s got the ability to dictate his own style of play, and that’s rare.”

Such endorsements speak volumes. It’s one thing to be noticed by fans, but when teammates, coaches, and ex-professionals all highlight a player’s exceptional qualities, it shows that Yildiz has something truly special.

Chelsea and Arsenal circling

Naturally, with such talent on display, Europe’s elite clubs have started to take notice. Reports emerged in the summer that both Chelsea and Arsenal had explored the possibility of signing Yildiz. Chelsea even made an approach, but Juventus immediately shut down any potential talks.

The Turin giants view Yildiz as untouchable. His contract runs until 2029, and Juve are already considering an improved deal to reflect his rising status. For a club still striving to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in Italy and in Europe, keeping hold of Yildiz is a clear priority.

The interest, though, is unlikely to go away. As Yildiz continues to deliver in Serie A and the Champions League, speculation will only intensify, particularly with Premier League clubs constantly searching for attacking players of his calibre.

Why Yildiz matters to Juventus’ future

Juventus’ faith in Yildiz is not just about talent—it’s about identity. At a time when the club has faced turbulence on and off the pitch, having a young, homegrown star with the charisma and ability to excite fans provides hope for a brighter future.

Serie A, too, has long been searching for the next generation of stars to light up the league. With players like Rafael Leão, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and now Yildiz, the competition is regaining its reputation as a stage for Europe’s most creative talents.

For Juventus, the Turkish forward is more than just a prospect—he’s becoming central to their ambitions. His ability to score, create, and carry himself with maturity makes him a potential cornerstone of the team for years to come.

Conclusion: A star on the rise

Kenan Yildiz is still at the very beginning of his journey, but the signs are clear. With over 90 appearances already under his belt, praise from legends like Llorente, comparisons to Del Piero and Laudrup, and interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, he is on a trajectory few can ignore.

For now, Juventus fans can enjoy watching one of the most promising young forwards in Europe develop in their colours. And if Llorente is right, Yildiz is not just destined to score goals of his own—he’s the type of player who makes everyone around him better.

If that sounds like Del Piero, Laudrup, or even some of the greats of Juve’s past, then perhaps the comparisons aren’t so far-fetched after all.