Juventus monitor Yildiz knee injury ahead of crucial Bologna clash
Juventus forward Kaan Yildiz is training separately from the main squad as the club manages a left knee inflammation that forced him off early in last weekend's win over Atalanta. According to reports from the club's training ground, the 19-year-old is undergoing individual work to alleviate the persistent issue ahead of Sunday's pivotal Serie A match against Bologna. Manager Luciano Spalletti had confirmed after the Atalanta game that Yildiz had been playing through discomfort in a match vital for Juventus's Champions League ambitions.
The Turkish international, who has been a breakout star this season, was substituted in the 58th minute at the Gewiss Stadium. He had also cut short his final pre-match training session due to the same knee problem but started the game regardless. Club medical staff are now adopting a cautious, day-by-day approach to his recovery, aiming to avoid aggravating the condition with six league games remaining in the race for a top-four finish. Juventus currently occupy fourth place after their victory combined with Como's defeat to Inter Milan.
Yildiz's potential absence would be a significant blow to Juventus's attacking options. Since his emergence into the first team, he has provided creativity and goal threat, becoming a key component of Spalletti's attack. His ability to play across the frontline has been particularly valuable during an inconsistent campaign for the Turin giants. The club's decision to train him separately underscores the importance placed on his long-term fitness for both the season's climax and his developmental future.
In more positive news from the Continassa training complex, other squad members showed sharp form in a practice match. Winger Arbnor Zhegrova, whose playing time has been limited in recent weeks, impressed with dribbling and a goal, while midfielder Hans Nicolussi Caviglia and striker Arkadiusz Milik also found the net. The session included a light-hearted moment where players were challenged to greet each other in any language except Italian, with Zhegrova humorously asking teammates, "Are you drinking enough?" in Italian.
The focus remains firmly on Yildiz's fitness, however, as Juventus prepares for a direct clash with Thiago Motta's Bologna, who sit just one point behind them in fifth. Securing Champions League qualification is the minimum requirement this season, and the availability of their young star could be decisive in the final run-in. A decision on his involvement is expected later in the week following further assessment.
