Revealed: Why Turkish starlet Yildiz took over as captain in Verona 1-1 Juventus | OneFootball

Turkish forward Kenan Yildiz took the captain’s armband for the first time in Bianconeri colours today, after Manuel Locatelli was substituted at half-time.

According to what has been revealed by IlBianconero, Yildiz took the armband as he is part of head coach Igor Tudor’s leadership team.

TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

It is testament to the 20-year-old’s maturity that he is able to wear the armband for the Old Lady at such an early age.

Locatelli off as Yildiz takes armband in Verona 1-1 Juventus

Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli was substituted at half-time, with the central midfielder yet to truly find his momentum this season.

EMPOLI, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 14: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus reacts during the Serie A match between Empoli and Juventus at Stadio Carlo Castellani on September 14, 2024 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

The Italian has been present for the Bianconeri but seems to be slightly off the pace.

At half-time Tudor chose to bring on Dutch midfielder Teun Koopmeiners for the Italian and the armband was passed over to Yildiz, who emerged from the dressing room for the second-half with the captaincy in his hands.

Juventus drew the match 1-1.