Montella: 'Don't want to think negatively, never will
October 6, 2026 · Italia
Vincenzo Montella expressed confidence and defended his coaching record ahead of the crucial Nations League clash with Italy, despite facing criticism and pressure after a poor start to the campaign.
Montella: ‘Don't Want to Think Negatively, Never
According to Sports.
Background
Vincenzo Montella, who currently coaches Turkiye, faces a big challenge in the Nations League. Without the presence of key players such as Kenan Yildiz and Hakan Calhanoglu, Montella must look for solutions in developing young players and new strategies to face the strong teams in this competition.
Why this is important
Criticism of Vincenzo Montella is increasing ahead of the important Nations League match against Italy. Poor results in the first three matches, including defeat against Italy, added to the pressure to improve the performance of the Turkiye team. Montella is trying to maintain confidence and focus on developing new players despite being without several key stars.
Main Points
- Montella: ‘Don't Want to Think Negatively, Never.
- Vincenzo Montella expressed confidence and defended his coaching record ahead of the crucial Nations League match against Italy, despite facing criticism and pressure after a poor start to the campaign.
- Montella: ‘Don't want to think negatively, will not accept illogical criticism’ - Yahoo Sports.
Vincenzo Montella, Turkiye's coach, stated that he "doesn't want to think negatively" ahead of the Nations League match against Italy, despite rumors that his position is under threat. He emphasized, "I cannot accept illogical criticism." The match is scheduled to take place at the Stadio Dall'Ara, Bologna, on Monday at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST). The pressure on Montella has increased after his team failed to win in their first three Nations League matches, with defeats 1-0 to France, 4-1 against Italy and 3-0 at Belgium, sparking calls for him to be sacked.
In a press conference before the match, Montella defended his record as coach of Turkiye. He said, "We want to win, compete and challenge ourselves at this level. In most of the three games, we had chances and the results were even for a long time, except against Italy. We are motivated and want to see what happens, and try to achieve a positive result, because just a draw is not enough."
Turkiye is currently without several key players, including Juventus striker Kenan Yildiz and Inter midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu who are injured. Additionally, Real Madrid talent Arda Guler was also suspended after being sent off in the match against Belgium, further weakening the squad. Montella added, "These are important players for us, just as they are for their clubs. However, this is a good opportunity to see the new players and evaluate them. I'm sure we will remain competitive even without them, and try to win."
Since taking over as coach in October 2023, Montella has a record of 21 wins, five draws and 13 defeats, which have led to Turkiye promotion to Nations League A and qualification for their first World Cup in 24 years.
"I'm used to the dynamics of football, I know and accept them," added Montella. "What I can't accept is illogical criticism. Criticism that I consider constructive, I can appreciate. This is the first time in Turkiye's history that we are in Nations League A, and I am the only coach who took us to that level. We wanted to play more competitive games like against France or the second half against Italy, but we struggled to score goals. Against Belgium, we were in the penalty area 42 times and I wondered what else I could do. Some time ago, I was asked if I knew a striker who scored almost 100 goals in the Turkish third division, and I found he was 32 years old. If he was someone we could develop for the future, I would consider it, but such illogical criticism hurts me. I understand people might be disappointed after an early World Cup exit, but we entered the tournament with our best players not in top condition. This could be one way to read it, but in football there are always new goals and opportunities, so we have to learn from those eliminations and improve."
Montella revealed that he felt privileged to return to Italian soil and face his former Sampdoria teammate, Roberto Mancini, on the sidelines. However, he was asked if he knew that this might be his last game as Turkiye coach. "I am determined, motivated and a professional who always gives everything with passion and a sincere heart. This is my state of mind, even though I know very well the dynamics of football. I don't want to think negatively.
What happened next
The match against Italy at the Stadio Dall'Ara was a crucial moment for Montella and his team. If Turkiye fails to achieve positive results, there will likely be a change in leadership towards the end of the transfer season. Montella hopes to take advantage of this opportunity to evaluate new players and strengthen the squad ahead of the next match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is involved in this Nations League match?
This match involves the Turkiye team coached by Vincenzo Montella and the Italian team.
Where does Vincenzo Montella come from?
Vincenzo Montella is from Italy.
Why does Vincenzo Montella continue to coach Turkiye?
Montella continues to coach Turkiye because he wants to see his team compete and achieve positive results despite pressure and criticism.
What is the status of Turkiye's key players ahead of the match?
Several of Turkiye's key players, including Kenan Yildiz and Hakan Calhanoglu, are unable to play due to injury, while Arda Guler is suspended.
When is the match against Italy scheduled to take place?
The match against Italy is scheduled to take place on Monday at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST) at the Stadio Dall'Ara, Bologna.
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