Juventus Faces Challenges as Yildiz’s Contract Talks Stall Amid Injury Concerns

Juventus has entered a new era under Luciano Spalletti, accompanied by heightened expectations. However, the recent 1-1 draw against Fiorentina has once again revealed the team’s ongoing struggle to transform potential into tangible performance. Central to this disappointment is Yildiz, a player once celebrated as the next leading attacker for Juve, who now finds himself grappling with both form and fitness.

Yildiz has netted only one goal in his last twelve matches, which was a late strike against Udinese when Juventus was already ahead. This decline is particularly stark when juxtaposed with his early-season statistics, where he had an impressive tally of two goals and four assists in just four games. Since that promising start, his form has deteriorated noticeably.

In the match against Fiorentina, the 20-year-old appeared to be drifting through the game, lacking the spark that previously defined his performances. Part of the issue can be attributed to a persistent knee problem he has been managing for several weeks. Despite this, Juventus continues to rely heavily on him, starting him in almost every match due to his importance and the team’s lack of alternatives.

Spalletti has come to his defense, attributing some of Yildiz’s struggles to the team’s slow tempo, which offers “little vertical service” to its forwards. However, the reality remains that Juventus appears blunt in attack, and Yildiz seems to be carrying a significant burden.

Negotiations regarding a contract renewal for Yildiz have reached an impasse. The Turkey international signed a long-term deal in August 2024 that extends until 2029 following a breakthrough season, but the club now recognizes the necessity for a renewal as interest from other European giants begins to grow.

Currently, Yildiz earns approximately €1.5 million annually, a figure that pales in comparison to Dusan Vlahovic’s €12 million and is significantly below the salaries of elite young talents in Europe. Reports from Calciomercato indicate that his representatives are now seeking a salary increase to the €5-6 million range, reflecting his increasing profile and market value.

Juventus, however, considers this request excessive. A recent meeting between new CEO Damien Comolli and Yildiz’s representatives ended without agreement, leaving both parties publicly calm but privately frustrated. Giorgio Chiellini captured the prevailing sentiment during the Social Football Summit in Turin, stating, “Yildiz renewal? Calm down. Calm down. Everyone has the will: with balance and calm, everything can be done.”

Yet, behind the scenes, achieving that balance is proving to be a challenge. With Premier League clubs and Real Madrid keeping a close eye on the situation, the Turkish forward is aware that his market value is on the rise, and a bidding war could surpass €100 million next summer. At the same time, Juventus understands that losing him would be detrimental to their future plans.

Yildiz’s decline in form has coincided with a knee issue diagnosed as patellar tendinopathy, an overuse injury that affects his acceleration, sharp turns, and explosive movements—key components of his playing style. Early signs of trouble surfaced ahead of Juventus’ league match against Lazio, when Yildiz sought rest due to discomfort in his left knee. The situation escalated to the point where he was unable to participate in Spalletti’s debut match in charge, a 2-1 victory over Cremonese on October 27.

Although the injury required only a brief absence, it has compelled Juventus to adjust his workload significantly. Yildiz returned to the squad by early November and was deemed fit to play against Sporting CP in the Champions League. However, his participation has since been cautiously managed, with a reduced playing time and a more conservative approach from the medical team.

Spalletti has recognized the difficulties in balancing protection and performance, admitting that Juventus “must play in a way that supports players like Yildiz,” all while managing an injury that could worsen with excessive strain.

The contract discussions come at a tumultuous time for Juventus. The club parted ways with Tudor in October after an eight-match winless streak, resulting in a drop to eighth place in Serie A. Massimo Brambilla filled in temporarily before Spalletti was appointed to restore order.

While Spalletti has introduced structure to the team, Juventus still appears ineffective in the final third. Despite significant investment in attacking players over the summer, performances remain inconsistent and lackluster. The draw with Fiorentina epitomizes a broader issue of failing to unlock the potential of promising players.

Thus, Yildiz’s contract renewal holds significance that extends beyond mere salary considerations. He is viewed as a player capable of leading the club’s rebuild over the next four to six years. However, to secure his future at Juventus, the club must provide more than just financial incentives; they must present a compelling competitive project both domestically and in Europe.