“Kritik, die jeder Logik entbehrt, höre ich mir gar nicht erst an,” Turkey head coach Vincenzo Montella said on the press podium in Bologna, setting off a wave of friction ahead of his side’s UEFA Nations League fixture against Italy. Montella faced intense questioning over personnel omissions, significant squad injuries, and a dismal run of results in League A Group I. The 52-year-old manager dismissed outside complaints as irrational, pointing to high-profile absences and the fierce competition of Europe’s top tier before his side ultimately suffered a 3–1 defeat at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.
Bologna Defeat Extends Historic Losing Streak
Monday night’s result in Italy marked the fourth defeat for the Turkish national team, a slump not seen since 1988. Trailing behind group opponents France, Belgium, and Italy, Turkey’s goal difference plummeted to 2 goals scored against 11 conceded across four fixtures. While Aral Şimşir brought Turkey level at 1–1 in the 61st minute against the Azzurri, the defensive frailties quickly resurfaced as the hosts reclaimed the lead just three minutes later. Prior to the defeat in Bologna, Turkey had already lost against France with 0–1, as well as in the first leg against Italy with 1–4 and in Belgium with 0–3.
Turkish Press Calls for Montella to Leave
The Turkish sports press launched severe attacks on the coach, with Fanatik suggesting Montella collect his severance and remain in Italy. Meanwhile, Hürriyet declared his tenure effectively over while questioning the financial viability of a buyout, given that Montella’s contract runs through 2028 with an estimated annual salary of two million euros. Hürriyet further wrote: “Selbst wenn wir 44 Spiele gespielt hätten, hätten wir sie wohl alle verloren,” adding that “Man kann ein Spiel verlieren, aber man braucht eine Identität und einen klar definierten Spielstil” while noting the team looked “sehr unorganisiert.” During the match at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, fans chanted “Montella, tritt zurück!”
Player Accountability Amid Internal Turmoil
Despite the mounting pressure from fans and media, Montella defended his record by citing injuries, the immense pressure players face at home, and his belief in a hopeful future. He stated that he still feels “die Unterstützung und Zuneigung” towards him and the players, adding: “aber egal, wohin wir gehen, hinter uns steht eine ganze Armee.” From within the dressing room, forward Yunus Akgün offered a starkly self-critical assessment of the campaign. The Galatasaray attacker admitted that the squad let their country down during a difficult phase, while pledging that the players will do everything in their power to restore national pride. Fanatik quoted Akgün saying: “Wir sind wirklich sehr enttäuscht.”
Upcoming Fixtures in November
Turkey will attempt to reverse its fortunes when the Nations League campaign resumes next month. The team hosts Belgium on November 12 before traveling to face France three days later on November 15.
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