Del Piero boosts Milan title hopes and reveals Yildiz’s target at Juventus

Alessandro Del Piero looks on during a press conference at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on June 03, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Alessandro Del Piero is convinced that Milan can compete for the Scudetto this season and feels Kenan Yildiz needs ‘no advice’ and wants to become a ‘symbol’ of Juventus.

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Del Piero spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport on the eve of Sunday’s Serie A clash between Juventus and Milan at the Allianz Stadium in Turin.

“It’s going to be a great match. It’s still early in the season, so maybe the return leg will be more interesting for other reasons, but this is already a good test for both teams to understand their current level of maturity,” said the Bianconeri legend.

Just one point separates Juventus (11) and Milan (12) in the Serie A table, but the Rossoneri have won five consecutive games across all competitions, while the Old Lady hosts the Devil after four consecutive draws. Juventus also play in the Champions League, while Milan are not involved in any European competition this term.

Del Piero: Champions League doesn’t bring more pressure

Italy and Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero on punditry duty during EURO 2024. (Del Piero: ‘I’m really happy for you, Kenan’ – Yildiz breaks 19-year-old record)

“Playing in the Champions League doesn’t necessarily bring more pressure,” Del Piero said.

“When you play one match per week, you have to perform well, so Milan have a big responsibility. Both teams are well-equipped to handle anything.”

Juventus coach Igor Tudor hasn’t yet picked a starting striker as he’s been rotating Dusan Vlahovic, Jonathan David and Lois Openda.

“The situation seems to be accepted by everyone, but obviously, not having consistency isn’t entirely positive,” Del Piero said.

“When you play four or five consecutive games, you get used to certain situations and can be more prepared.

“What’s important is that those who are not playing manage to keep their focus high. More and more often, matches are decided by substitutes. Hopefully, Tudor picks the right players before and during the game.”

Massimiliano Allegri and Adrien Rabiot visit their former Juventus on Sunday, but can they compete for the title with Milan?

“For a number of reasons, yes, because they’re only playing in the league, which allows them to prepare the week very well and have players ready physically, without trips or interruptions,” argued Del Piero.

“Also, because they have quality, not just Rabiot, but also Modric, Leao, and Saelemaekers. It’s a well-structured team.”

Del Piero: Yildiz needs ‘no advice’

VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC is challenged by Gift Orban of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

Last but not least, Del Piero was asked his thoughts on Juventus star Yildiz.

“From what I’ve seen so far, he doesn’t need advice. He’s a serious kid who loves to work hard and wants to become a symbol of this club and succeed,” said the former Bianconeri star.

“He’s doing it in the best possible way, in my opinion. Of course, there will be difficult moments, ups and downs, and in those times he’ll need to rely on the right people. I just hope he always has the right people around him, those who can tell him what he needs to hear at the right moment.”

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