Juventus to experiment with Yildiz as false 9 as Vlahovic doubtful for Fiorentina trip

Juventus are bracing for a difficult trip to Florence on Saturday and with Dusan Vlahović a major doubt, Luciano Spalletti is doubling down on the one player he trusts most: Kenan Yildiz.

Vlahovic was forced off with Serbia due to a muscle issue, and although tests have eased initial fears, the striker remains at clear risk for his return to Florence.

That leaves Spalletti preparing for a scenario in which the No.9 sits out ahead of November 25’s crucial Champions League clash awayato Bodø/Glimt.

If Vlahović doesn’t make it, Juventus will turn even more to their No.10. Yildiz won’t feature for Türkiye against Spain after Vincenzo Montella opted to protect him from Suspension ahead of the March World Cup play-offs: a decision that effectively hands Juve a fresher, mentally sharper player at the perfect moment.

Spalletti has been vocal about his admiration: “I always play Kenan,” he joked after the derby. And he may lean on him again in Florence, whether as a left-sider, a roaming trequartista or even as a false nine, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Juventus evaluated the possibility of recalling Yildiz early, but Türkiye refused. A compromise was found: he will stay with the national team until Tuesday night and report back to Continassa on Wednesday.