"Who the f**k is this?" - Paul Scholes salutes Manchester United-linked attacker with X-rated comment during Champions League game
Former Manchester United legend Paul Scholes sent shockwaves through social media with a blunt and unfiltered reaction to Juventus’ rising star Kenan Yildiz. His comment came following the Italian side’s commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, December 11.
Scholes, renowned for his no-nonsense style on and off the pitch, posted a surprising Instagram story for the Manchester United-linked forward during the match.
"Who the f**k is this Yildiz."
Paul Scholes made the X-rated comment and followed it up with a clapping hands emoticon. Indeed, it was a performance that merited attention.
At just 19 years old, Kenan Yildiz has been turning heads across Europe, and Wednesday night at the Allianz Stadium was no exception. The Turkish forward delivered a standout display, assisting Dusan Vlahovic for the opening goal with a moment of pure class that underlined his burgeoning reputation.
His fearless approach and creative flair were on display, marking yet another memorable chapter in his breakout season. This was only Yildiz’s sixth appearance in European competition, but he’s already making history.
Earlier in the group stage, the teenager became the youngest player ever to score for Juventus, netting on his European debut in a 3-1 win over PSV Eindhoven. That goal saw him surpass a record held by club legend Alessandro Del Piero.
Juventus' victory over City has further bolstered their Champions League campaign, with the Bianconeri looking poised to progress deep into the competition.
Meanwhile, City's struggles in Europe continued, with the Premier League champions now sitting in a precarious 22nd place in the new 36-team format. With only two group matches remaining, their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages hanging by a thread.
Speaking ahead of the clash with City, he described the match as a dream come true. Here's what he said (via GOAL):
"Man City is a great team. Two years ago, they won the Champions League. If I have to pick a role model, it’s probably (Erling) Haaland, but it’s an honour to play against them."
The young forward also shared his emotions about playing on the grandest stage, admitting that hearing the Champions League anthem for the first time gave him goosebumps.
"The season is still long. I don’t know where we’ll end [in the Champions League], but we’ll try to give our best."
Several Premier League clubs including Manchester United interested in signing Kenan Yildiz - Reports
Manchester United are reportedly pulling out all the stops to secure the signature of Juventus starlet Kenan Yildiz, as interest in the 19-year-old sensation intensifies across Europe.
Despite a contract with the Bianconeri that runs until 2029, the Turkish international has become a hot commodity, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Aston Villa monitoring his rapid rise, along with Manchester United.
According to Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Yildiz has emerged as a prime target for Manchester United, who see the teenager as a potential key piece in their evolving attack.
With Marcus Rashford's future at the club shrouded in mystery, Yildiz's addition will add much-needed versatility and agility to The Red Devils' roster.
However, Juventus are in no mood to entertain offers for the versatile forward.
Yildiz has established himself as a cornerstone of their present and future under manager Thiago Motta. He has thrived as a left winger in 19 appearances this season across competitions, contributing four goals and three assists.
With a reported valuation of €80 million, Juventus are firm in their resolve to keep the Turkish prodigy, who they view as an untouchable asset. Yildiz himself appears equally committed to his current club, with no plans to leave Turin despite the growing buzz around his name.