The Turkish Football Federation is considering a temporary coaching solution for the national team following Vincenzo Montella's departure. Youth National Teams Technical Coordinator Samet Aybaba is being evaluated to lead the side in the key upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Belgium and France.

The TFF board announced the end of its working relationship with Montella following a meeting yesterday. The board stated, "A decision has been made not to continue with our National Team Technical Director Mr. Vincenzo Montella." At the same meeting, İbrahim Özbay and Metin Akyüz were appointed to replace resigning board members. Ahmet Erzurumlu was also appointed as TFF Registration Affairs Director, replacing General Secretary Abdullah Ayaz.

Under Montella, Türkiye lost its last four official matches. The team was defeated 3-1 by Italy and 3-0 by Belgium in October, following a III-1 loss to Italy and a 0-1 defeat to France in September. These results leave the team without a point in Nations League Group A, meaning their playoff hopes hinge on taking maximum points from the matches against Belgium on 12 November and France on 15 November. The team's next fixture, is at home to Belgium on 12 November.

The Italian coach led Türkiye in 40 matches during his tenure. The record stands at 21 wins, 5 draws, and 14 defeats. Montella's time in charge also included guiding Türkiye to the FIFA World Cup. It is noted that Montella's contract ran until 2026 and that this early departure will cost the federation approximately 4 million euros.

The federation board decided to continue in its management role until the next ordinary general assembly. The board declared, "The Turkish Football Federation Board of Directors, in the meeting it held today, has decided to continue its duty until the date of the ordinary elective general assembly." During this transitional period, plans are in place to appoint an experienced figure to lead the national team. Samet Aybaba has emerged as the leading candidate due to his current role within the federation and his experience. Aybaba has previously served as head coach at clubs including Sivasspor, Kayserispor, and Trabzonspor. Preparations for the two critical Nations League contests will accelerate with the new coach in place. Türkiye will take to the pitch against Belgium on 12 November.

This story first appeared at A Haber