Dortmund legend hails Kenan Yıldız in comparison to former Juventus star

As Juventus prepare to face Borussia Dortmund in a pre-season friendly, former BVB striker Karl-Heinz “Kalle” Riedle has taken a trip down memory lane.

The ex-German international recalled the unforgettable night in 1997 when Dortmund shocked the football world by defeating Juventus 3–1 in the Champions League final — a match in which Riedle scored twice to secure the trophy.

Reflecting on what comes to mind when he sees the black and white of Juventus, Riedle spoke with admiration about the club’s prestige.

“Ah, the top. Juventus, at least in my time, was the maximum, along with Milan. Always exceptional matches — the chance to measure yourself against the best,” he said.

“When I played at Lazio, going to Turin was something special, and it was the same when they came to us: top-level games. They were the benchmark, the point of reference. Juventus remains a top-class club with a unique charm.”

Riedle also revealed the current Juventus player who has caught his eye — young forward Kenan Yildiz. The former striker believes the Turkish international is one of the most exciting talents in world football today.

Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Arda Gueler of Real Madrid C.F. During the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round…

“Kenan Yildiz is one of the greatest talents around — an extraordinary player,” he said. “What do I like about him? His style, the way he carries himself on the pitch. I think he’s a real asset.

“And do you know who he reminds me of? Paulo Dybala, at least in his early years. We’re talking about a top player, the kind who makes the difference in decisive moments.”

Turning back to that famous 1997 final, Riedle shared a remarkable story about the night before the match.

“The night before the game, I dreamed I scored two goals in the final. I told my roommate immediately: ‘Look, tomorrow I’m going to score twice.’ And that’s exactly what happened,” he recalled.

“At the time, Juventus were clear favourites, and we were the outsiders. But we managed to bring home that cup. It was an extraordinary moment in my career — a night I will carry with me forever.”

Finale in Muenchen 28.05.97, FINALE BORUSSIA DORTMUND – JUVENTUS TURIN 3:1, DORTMUND CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SIEGER 1997/EUROPAPOKALSIEGER 1997, JUBEL…

Finally, Riedle assessed Borussia Dortmund’s current situation, noting the impact of key departures in recent years.

“I’ve noticed some difficulties, largely due to important departures — above all Haaland, but also Sancho, a great player who is hard to replace,” he said.

“That’s why last season’s Bundesliga wasn’t easy. The transfer market is always a variable — some players will leave, others will arrive. But I have good faith in Borussia; I think they can get back to fighting for the title. And this final test against Juventus will already tell us something,”

Juventus and Borussia Dortmund will face off later today, with kick-off scheduled for 17:30, offering both teams a valuable test ahead of the new season.