Why was Juventus talent Yildiz benched in Turkey World Cup opener against Australia?

Kenan Yildiz has been left out of Turkey’s starting eleven for their opening World Cup fixture against Australia, with the Juventus forward named among the substitutes as coach Vincenzo Montella takes a cautious approach over the Bianconeri star’s fitness.

The nature of the concern has not been fully disclosed.

According to The Guardian, Montella declined to address Yildiz’s situation directly in his pre-match press conference, though he did admit to having “a few doubts” about whether certain members of his squad would be able to play a full 90 to 100 minutes.

The implication is that Yildiz enters the tournament carrying a minor complaint that the staff are keen to manage carefully.

It is a blow for Turkey, who will have been counting on one of Europe’s most exciting young players to make an immediate impact.

Yildiz remains in the squad and could feature from the bench should he be needed, although it makes sense for Montella to keep one eye on the rest of the competition.