{
  "id": 12588190,
  "title": "Paolo Montero explains why he knew Yildiz and Huijsen would make it",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/paolo-montero-explains-why-he-knew-yildiz-and-huijsen-would-make-it",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-07T09:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/paolo-montero-explains-why-knew-090000999.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Paolo Montero, former Juventus Under-19 manager, shared insights on why he believed Kenan Yildiz and Dean Huijsen would succeed in their careers. Both players, who progressed through Juventus' youth system, ultimately reached the highest echelons of the game. Yildiz is now seen as one of the most valuable players in Serie A, while Huijsen has become a regular starter for Real Madrid. Montero, who managed the duo during their formative years, highlighted their exceptional work ethic and dedication to their craft as key factors in their success.\n\nYildiz, in particular, caught Montero's attention during his time with the youth team, as the Turkish international displayed the qualities necessary to reach the top. The former Juventus defender praised the players' mentality, noting that they always gave their all during training sessions, demonstrating remarkable quality and a hunger to improve. Montero emphasized that while talent is essential, it is hard work and an unyielding work ethic that truly turn promising players into top performers. Both Yildiz and Huijsen epitomized this mindset, working tirelessly and displaying an insatiable desire to learn and grow during every training session. This dedication, according to Montero, was the crucial ingredient that transformed these two talented youngsters into established stars.\n\nYildiz's impact on Juventus is significant, as the club now views him as their leading player. However, the prospect of attracting interest from some of the world's biggest clubs may present a challenge for Juventus in retaining his services. Huijsen, too, regularly represents Spain, solidifying his status as a star player and fulfilling the potential he showcased during his time at Juventus. Both players have proven that hard work and a strong work ethic are the keys to success, setting them apart from their peers and cementing their places among the game's elite.",
  "summary": "Paolo Montero managed the Juventus Under-19 team when Kenan Yildiz and Dean Huijsen were progressing through the club’s youth system. Both players eventually proved too good for that level and the N...",
  "key_points": [
    "Paolo Montero, former Juventus manager, predicts success of Yildiz and Huijsen.",
    "Yildiz, now Serie A star, displayed exceptional work ethic during youth.",
    "Huijsen, Real Madrid starter, exemplified dedication to craft."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}