Turkey Sack Montella After Nations League Losses

Turkey has dismissed head coach Vincenzo Montella following a poor run in the Nations League, where the team lost all four of their matches.

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) announced the decision on Friday, confirming that it would not continue its working relationship with the Italian coach.

“It has been decided not to continue with our head coach,” TFF said. 

Montella took charge in September 2023 and initially enjoyed success, leading Turkey to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. Their campaign ended with a 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands.

However, the team’s form has declined in recent months despite the presence of prominent players, including Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu, Real Madrid playmaker Arda Guler and Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz.

Turkey suffered four consecutive Nations League defeats against France, Belgium and Italy, who beat them twice.

The national team were also the first to be eliminated from this summer’s World Cup, despite defeating co-hosts the United States in their final group match.

Turkey are scheduled to host Belgium in the Nations League on November 12 before travelling to France three days later.

Montella, 52, previously managed several Italian clubs, including Fiorentina, Sampdoria and AC Milan, as well as Spanish side Sevilla.