Yildiz similar to Del Piero, but ‘has nothing to do’ with Platini, says ex-Juventus player

Former Juventus winger Massimo Mauro admits Kenan Yildiz can follow in Alessandro Del Piero’s footsteps but still has ‘a long way to go’ to reach Michel Platini.

Juventus star Yildiz has massively contributed to recent results that saw the Bianconeri secure six wins in the last seven matches across all competitions.

The Turkey international has been a key player under both Igor Tudor and Luciano Spalletti, earning more and more comparisons with Juventus legend Del Piero.

Yildiz similar to Del Piero

“He can be compared to Del Piero in terms of characteristics, considering that at a certain point, Alex played more as a striker,” former Juventus winger Mauro told Gazzetta.

“In terms of physical build and ability, he can certainly emulate him, but Yildiz has nothing to do with Platini. In that case, there is still a long way to go.”

Mauro played with Platini at Juventus and won one Serie A title and one Intercontinental Cup during his time in Turin.

Yildiz’s contract expires in June 2029, but Juventus are already working to extend his stay at the club.

“Comolli has the necessary experience to act in Juventus’ best interest. Either he sells him for 200m or renews his contract. It’s clear that everyone expects him to keep Yildiz,” Mauro argued.

Dusan Vlahovic was Juventus’ starting striker before he got injured in November. As the Serbian will remain out of action until March, Lois Openda and Jonathan David now compete for a starting spot up front.

Mauro on Juventus’ strikers

“When you come to Juventus and don’t have someone next to you who solves problems, everything becomes more difficult. David has certain characteristics he can bring into the penalty area, and over the course of the season, he can be very useful,” Mauro said.

“Openda has different characteristics; if he has space, as he did against Roma, he can really give a big help. Personally, I find him very intelligent, also in how he knows how to carve out space at the right moments.”