According to Metropolitan Sports, Kelnan Yildiz will undergo a physical examination today to assess his left knee injury. Spalletti had previously called to comfort him.
A month ago, Spalletti made a special phone call to Kelnan Yildiz—a cross-border call all the way to the Americas—just to comfort him after Turkey's World Cup exit. Turkey went to the United States carrying the hopes of its "Golden Generation," and Yildiz was one of the most representative figures among these players, but the harsh reality shattered their dreams. Losing to Paraguay while playing with almost ten men for most of the match marked a painful elimination. For Yildiz, this sense of defeat, coupled with his lackluster end to the season at Juventus, intensified his desire to prove himself.
Spalletti clearly considered this when he decided to make the call – partly to offer comfort, but more importantly, to get him completely away from football, with his family, and recharge for his return to Turin. It was evident that even at the World Cup, the "real" Yildiz hadn't been seen – the explosive, sharp-changing Yildiz. He remained dull and heavy, hampered by a problem with his left patellar tendon. This injury severely impacted his performance at the end of the season, leaving Juventus without one of their most important players during the crucial stage of their Champions League qualification race. His last goal for Juventus was on March 21st, and his slump since then coincided with the team's collapse – first against Verona, then against Fiorentina, the Turk failed to produce a moment of brilliance to save the day in those difficult moments.
Therefore, understanding Kelvin Yildiz's physical condition is crucial for starting the new season at the right pace. He will undergo a routine physical at J Medical Center today—a standard preseason check-up—but in this case, there will be a particular focus on the current extent of his knee injury. The results of these assessments will determine the level of conditioning and load management he can handle—whether it's individual training or team practice.
Spalletti is waiting, and his optimism was evident in the pre-match press conference: "We have a top-notch medical team, and we welcome him with open arms because he means a lot to us. Our plan is for Yildiz to return to training immediately upon his return. If necessary, we will arrange suitable work according to his needs, likely a differentiated training approach, and do our best to provide him with the best conditions." Interpreting this statement, it's clear that handling this young player requires caution and balance, especially avoiding haste. At this crucial stage of preparation, forcibly increasing his workload and causing a prolonged break could ruin his entire season—what's needed is attention, patience, and management. Of course, it's hoped that his injury will continue to improve, and that he won't have to play in pain like he did at the end of last season. The facts have already proven—if there's any doubt—that having him at his best makes a world of difference.
