As the FIFA World Cup 2026™ draws closer, we are spotlighting some youngsters seemingly set to illuminate the beautiful game’s greatest tournament.
Kenan Yildiz
Date of birth: 4 May 2005
Teams: Türkiye and Juventus
International debut: 12 October 2023 v Croatia (18 years old)
Position: Left winger
Standout skills: Technique, dribbling, creativity and mentality
Why Yildiz could be a World Cup sensation
On the evening of 18 November 2023, Berlin’s Olympic Stadium witnessed a special moment. Germany were leading Türkiye 2-1 when an 18-year-old from Regensburg hammered the ball into the top corner with his right foot – Kenan Yildiz had just opened his international goalscoring account, and against the country of his birth no less. “It was so unreal,” he said two years ago in an interview with FIFA. “I think everyone could see my emotions when I scored.”
It was a moment that revealed a lot about Yildiz: cold-bloodedness, technique and a flair for making a grand entrance. “Kenan has exceptional skills. He can change a game all on his own,” enthused Türkiye national-team coach Vincenzo Montella.
Yildiz was born in Bavaria to a Turkish father and a German mother, joined Bayern Munich’s academy at the age of seven and moved to Juventus at 17. The fact that he now wears the number 10 shirt, which once belonged to the likes of Michel Platini, Roberto Baggio and Alessandro Del Piero, says everything about the status he already commands in Turin.
In the current Serie A season, the 21-year-old has scored ten goals and created a further seven, impressive numbers that put him up there with the best attacking players in the Italian top flight. He is known for his ability to outfox opponents with swift feints, making him one of the standout dribblers in Europe’s top five leagues.
Yildiz has also established himself at international level and has been a key cog in the Turkish attack since UEFA EURO 2024, even if he himself admits that he needs to be more prolific for his country.
Türkiye will be sending a star to the World Cup – Yildiz means exactly that in Turkish – and in North America he could well help his national team shine brighter than ever.
Yildiz’ magic moments
Check out some of the highlights and goals that have made Kenan Yildiz one of the players to watch at the World Cup.
What’s been said about Yildiz
“He has a knack for seeing how a game will develop… it’s a natural gift.”
Massimiliano Allegri, the coach who gave Yıldız his professional debut at Juventus
“He has incredible talent, but his greatest strength is his work ethic.”
Former Bianconeri boss Thiago Motta
“He has fantastic qualities and scores some incredible goals.”
Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero
“Kenan combines natural talent with the right mentality. He’s always looking to improve. I predict he’ll have a future at the highest level for many years to come.”
Türkiye tactician Vincenzo Montella
“When you see him dribble, he’s a little bit like our very own Lamine Yamal.”
Juventus defender Gleison Bremer
