Montella: ‘Don’t want to think negatively, will not accept illogical criticism’

Turkiye manager Vincenzo Montella defended his managerial record and rejected illogical criticism ahead of their Nations League match against Italy at the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna. Montella faces mounting pressure and dismissal rumors following three straight Nations League defeats against France, Italy, and Belgium. He noted that he remains motivated, determined, and refuses to think negatively despite speculation that Monday's fixture could be his last game in charge.

Turkiye faces Italy with several key absences, as Kenan Yildiz and Hakan Calhanoglu are sidelined with injuries and Arda Guler is suspended following a red card against Belgium. Defending his overall tenure since October 2023, Montella highlighted his record of 21 wins in 39 matches, which included reaching Nations League A and qualifying Turkiye for their first World Cup in 24 years.