Juventus receive fitness boost as Yildiz and Vlahovic return to training
Juventus have been handed a significant fitness boost ahead of their crucial Serie A clash with AC Milan, with forwards Kenan Yildiz and Dusan Vlahovic returning to full team training. According to reports from Turin, both players participated in the group session at the Continassa training ground on Friday and are now available for selection for Sunday's match. The return of the attacking duo provides manager Massimiliano Allegri with welcome options as his side aims to secure a victory that would edge them closer to mathematical certainty of a Champions League place next season.
For Vlahovic, the return marks the end of a lengthy injury absence. The Serbian striker has been a key figure for Juventus this season, and his potential involvement, even if likely from the bench initially, offers a significant offensive threat. The situation regarding Yildiz is described as more delicate, with the 19-year-old Turkish international reportedly feeling well after his own fitness issues. The final decision on whether Yildiz starts the match or is introduced as a substitute will rest with Allegri.
The positive news extends beyond the forward line. Midfielder Adrien Thuram is also reported to have fully recovered and is expected to start in the center of the park alongside Manuel Locatelli. Furthermore, right-back Timothee Holm is back in contention after returning to training. Despite some strong recent performances, however, Holm is expected to begin the match on the bench, with the indispensable Weston McKennie likely to retain his starting role in that position, potentially opening the door for a second-half appearance for Holm.
These developments come at a critical juncture in Juventus's season. With the race for Champions League qualification still active, having a full-strength squad is paramount. The availability of Yildiz, in particular, adds a dynamic and creative option to Juventus's attack, which has sometimes struggled for consistency. His breakthrough season has made him one of the most watched young talents in Italy, and his fitness is a key component of Juventus's tactical flexibility for the run-in.
The return of multiple players from injury provides Allegri with increased depth and tactical variety for the final matches of the campaign. As the club prepares for a pivotal match against a direct rival, the ability to call upon key personnel could prove decisive in securing the points needed to achieve their primary seasonal objective of a top-four finish.
