Kenan Yildiz fitness doubt for Juventus ahead of crucial Milan clash
Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti faces a late decision on the availability of forward Kenan Yildiz for Saturday's pivotal Serie A match against AC Milan. According to reports from Italy, Yildiz returned to full group training on Friday but continues to be troubled by a knee inflammation that has persisted throughout the season. The final call on whether he will start at San Siro will be made following an assessment of his reaction to the session.
The fixture carries significant weight in the race for Champions League qualification, with third place in the league the likely prize for the victor. Yildiz, the 20-year-old Turkish international, was restricted to a substitute role in Juventus's previous match against Bologna as a precaution. Club sources indicate he is now eager to play through the discomfort and start against Milan, but the medical staff will have the final say. Should he be deemed unfit, Jeremie Boga is reportedly in line to take his place in the attacking trident.
In more positive news for the Bianconeri, striker Dusan Vlahovic also returned to full training and is expected to be among the substitutes after a period of absence. The only players definitively ruled out are the long-term absentees, Filip Kostic and Arkadiusz Milik. Spalletti otherwise has a full squad to select from, including Mattia Perin, Emil Holm, Khephren Thuram, and Vasilije Adzic, who are all available.
The anticipated lineup, should Yildiz be cleared, sees Michele Di Gregorio in goal, with a defensive trio of Pierre Kalulu, Gleison Bremer, and Lloyd Kelly. The midfield is set to feature Weston McKennie, Thuram, Manuel Locatelli, and Andrea Cambiaso, supporting an attacking trio of Francisco Conceicao, Jonathan David, and Yildiz. This selection underscores the importance of the match, with both clubs seeking to secure a top-four finish and the financial and sporting prestige of Champions League football.
Yildiz's ongoing fitness issues have been a recurring theme this campaign, occasionally limiting his impact despite his clear talent. His potential absence or limited capacity would be a blow for Juventus, who rely on his creativity and directness in the final third. The outcome of this high-stakes encounter could significantly define the closing narrative of both clubs' seasons, with Juventus looking to solidify their standing under Spalletti.
