Juventus legend Del Piero hails ‘exciting’ Yildiz & claims ‘creativity isn’t dead in Italy’

LECCE, ITALY – MAY 09: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC controls the ball during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Juventus FC at Stadio Via del Mare on May 09, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Juventus icon Del Piero calls for youth football reform as he insists Italian creativity can be rediscovered

Del Piero also addressed the broader question of whether Italian football has lost its flair, pushing back firmly against the narrative.

“Creativity in Italy is dead? No, it is always present here, perhaps in other sports more than football right now,” he said. “It will be rediscovered on our pitches too, by working in the most appropriate way.”

The former Italy international reserved particular concern for the development of young players, arguing that a fear of failure is stifling talent at youth level.

“Youth football needs different priorities, because once upon a time people enjoyed themselves more,” he said.

“Defeat teaches you more than victory, if you experience it without shame. Many young players now take a step back when faced with defeat. Whoever manages to make them enjoy the game again will rediscover the talent.”

On the World Cup more broadly, Del Piero declined to name a favourite, noting that six or seven nations could realistically lift the trophy.