INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – June 25, 2026: Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella watches the World Cup Group D clash between Türkiye and the USA at Los Angeles Stadium. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Montella says he won’t step down even if Turkey falls to Italy tonight, adding that recent successes have raised expectations too high.
The match kicks off at Bologna’s Stadio Dall’Ara at 19:45 UK time (20:45 CEST).
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Criticism mounts on the Italian‑born tactician after an early World Cup exit and a shaky Nations League debut in League A. For my money, his tactics need a fresh overhaul.
Turkey have lost all three games, netting just one goal while conceding eight against France, Italy and Belgium.
Montella is determined to keep his Turkey job.
‘Four games in 11 days is new for us, and this is our first taste of this level,’ Montella told Sky Sport Italia.
Injuries and suspensions have thinned the squad: Juventus forward Kenan Yıldız, Inter midfielder Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Real Madrid’s Arda Güler and striker Barış Alper Yeşil are all unavailable.
Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Can Uzun also battles a muscle problem.
‘We’re missing key players, but it gives a chance to test youngsters who could serve us for years,’ Montella added.
Calls grow for Montella’s dismissal and for federation chiefs to resign after today’s referee arrest linked to an illegal betting scandal.
‘I’m proud to have led Turkey these three years; the fans have always shown love. Criticism is natural in our business,’ he said.
‘I still feel that support, and I regret not meeting expectations lately – a fallout of the high bar we set ourselves,’ Montella explained.
‘I’m motivated, confident and surprisingly calm, so I intend to stay as long as the players trust our vision,’ he affirmed.
Facing Italy and former Sampdoria teammate Roberto Mancini adds a personal twist for Montella.
‘It was emotional the first time, even in a friendly, but now I’m almost used to it. Such is football,’ he reflected.