Kenan Yildiz has reflected on representing Turkey at the World Cup while carrying an injury, as his side exited the competition at the group stage.
Turkey were expected to progress to the knockout rounds alongside the United States, especially after being drawn against Australia and Paraguay in their opening two matches. However, they suffered surprise defeats in both games.
Injury Struggles and Group Stage Exit
They defeated the USA in their final group match, but it came too late to save their campaign as they finished bottom of the group and exited the tournament early, which could ultimately benefit Juventus.
Yildiz will now have extra time to rest and recover before returning for pre-season training as he prepares for the new campaign with the Bianconeri.
Turkey have several talented players, including Arda Guler, and many tipped them to be one of the dark horses of this summer’s World Cup.
However, they failed to live up to expectations, and Yildiz was unable to make his usual impact after arriving at the tournament carrying an injury. He started only the second and third group matches.
He told Tuttosport:
“The start was very difficult for me due to my injury. I couldn’t give 100% physically, but tomorrow we’ll do our best for our people. Two years ago, at the European Championship, I was one of the most criticized: there are so many variables in football. I will always continue to give everything I can. I don’t want our people to love me more: we are all fighting for our country, let them love all of us! For the future, we will give it our all: we want to make children and people dream in Türkiye. We will work to make our people proud.”
Recovery and Return to Juventus
Yildiz’s comments underline his determination to improve and remain important for both Turkey and Juventus moving forward.
He now focuses on recovery before returning to Juventus ‘ pre-season preparations for the new campaign ahead.
