Crisis in Turkey: Montella at risk of sacking before Italy duel
Italian coach Vincenzo Montella is at the centre of a growing protest in Turkey, where fans and the press are demanding his resignation before the highly‑anticipated clash against Italy. The crisis of the Turkish national team shows no signs of improvement and the match against the Azzurri is considered the last chance to save his role.
Disastrous performances in the Nations League
During the UEFA Nations League, Turkey has suffered three consecutive defeats, a negative record not surpassed since 1993. The last two matches were decided by a three‑goal margin, a result not seen since 1983. Adding the three World Cup games, the side has five defeats in its last six fixtures.
Pressures from fans, media and federation
During the first half of the away match in Bursa, supporters shouted for Montella’s dismissal to federation president İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu, who left his seat in the stands. At the end of the encounter, the supporters again urged the coach to resign. Belgium’s 3‑0 loss in Liège amplified the criticism, with the Turkish press publishing harsh comments, including Tunç Kayacı’s piece in Fanatik, which suggested Montella “leave on good terms.”
Montella has rejected the idea of stepping down, but his position remains precarious. The coach has a contract until 2028, with an annual salary of almost €2 million, but another defeat against Italy could condemn Turkey to relegation from League A of the Nations League and, consequently, the end of his adventure.
The Bologna match, where Turkey will face Roberto Mancini’s Italy, is seen as the final hope. In addition to the absence of key players such as Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Orkun Kökçü, the side will have to do without Arda Güler and Barış Yılmaz, both suspended, increasing the difficulty of an already delicate match.
With zero points from three games, only one goal scored and eight conceded, the numbers confirm the seriousness of the situation. Another negative result against Italy could mark the end of Montella’s adventure in Turkey.