Montella wants to remain Turkey's coach despite fierce criticism

Vincenzo Montella wants, despite harsh criticism after the 0‑3 defeat to Italy in the Nations League, to remain the coach of Turkey. He hopes to use the remaining two away matches in October – against Belgium and Italy – to finish the international break on a positive note.

Montella responds to criticism

Turkey was already 0‑3 down to Italy in the Nations League after twenty minutes. Montella stated that the team deserved the chanting and the boos in the first half. He added that they increased the tempo in the second half, but that this is not their usual style of play.

He recalled the team's past: three years ago Turkey was still in Nations League C. Under his guidance the nation won Nations League B and now reached the top tier, where the level is considerably higher. Montella warned that playing every three days presents an extra challenge.

Fans in the stadium made it clear on Monday evening that they would welcome Montella's dismissal, and the Turkish press has already written about a possible new national team coach. This public pressure has put the Italian manager under fire.

Nevertheless, Montella emphasized that he believes in the work he has done and in his players. He said that, should a departure become a matter of discussion, he would first discuss it with the players, but that this is not currently on the agenda.

Montella still has two away matches in October: first against Belgium, then again against Italy. He hopes to use these duels to finish the international period positively.