The Turkish Football Federation has terminated the contract of national team head coach Vincenzo Montella. The decision follows Turkey's elimination in the World Cup group stage and four consecutive defeats in the UEFA Nations League A.
Federation president Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu and the board's decision includes a compensation payment of €915,000 to Montella, equivalent to five months' salary. The Italian manager, who began his tenure in September 2023, oversaw 40 matches, recording 21 wins, 5 draws, and 14 losses. Montella led Turkey to the 2026 World Cup, ending a 24-year absence, and to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.
However, recent results prompted his dismissal. The national team has won only one of its last five official matches, most recently losing 3-1 to Italy in Bologna last week. Aral Simsir's goal leveled the score at 1-1, but two late goals sealed the defeat. Three days prior, they were beaten 3-0 by Belgium in Liege.
Montella had dismissed criticism after the Belgium loss. "I don't want to pay too much attention to the criticism," the experienced coach said, adding, "Türkiye would continue improving toward its objectives." The federation, however, has chosen a new path to ensure that improvement continues.
Former captain Arda Turan is emerging as the leading candidate to succeed Montella. The team's next fixture is a Nations League A match against Belgium at home on 12 November 2026.
This story first appeared at sports.yahoo.com
