Montella stands firm as Turkey supporters demand change after Italy defeat

Vincenzo Montella has rejected calls for his resignation after Turkey suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat by Italy in the Nations League on Monday.

The result left Montella under renewed pressure, with supporters calling for the Italian to leave and also demanding the resignation of the president of the Turkish Football Federation.

Turkey’s collapse began inside the opening 27 minutes in Bursa, where Italy scored three times before completing the victory with a fourth goal in the second half. It was Turkey’s second defeat in Group A of the Nations League, following a 1-0 home loss to France.

According to TRTsport journalist Fatih Dogan, chants of “Montella istifa” – “Montella resign” – began in the stands after Italy had taken a 2-0 lead through goals in the second and 22nd minutes.

Montella said he had not expected such an angry reaction from the supporters after what he believes his players have achieved during his three years in charge. The 2026 World Cup group-stage exit and the defeat by France had already led to strong criticism of the manager.

“The first half-hour was certainly something to forget,” Montella told Sky Sport Italia, in comments reported by Football Italia.

“Playing at this level every three days requires a certain focus and experience that we currently lack.”

Turkey had competed in League C of the Nations League two years ago before winning promotion to League B in the previous edition. Montella said that progress showed the team still had work to do in dealing with the demands of international football.

“We were in League C two years ago and won the League B title last time, so we have clearly shown that we need to improve in this area,” he added.

“It requires a mental and physical reset every few days, and that is not something that can be learned quickly.”

Asked why Turkey had made so many serious mistakes before half-time, Montella said Italy had been better prepared mentally.

“They were certainly more ready mentally at the start,” he said. “We were disorganised, so we ran more and lost confidence.”

The reaction from the home crowd also surprised him. Montella said the players had been booed after Italy’s opening goal, despite not deserving that treatment.

“The atmosphere before the match was excellent,” he said. “I really did not expect such a quick reaction after everything these players have done over the past three years.”

Montella told Turkish newspaper Hurriyet that he remained committed to the job, despite having received attractive offers.

“I believe in the work I have done. Even when I received tempting offers, I did not leave,” he said. “I still trust our players and support them.”

He added: “Just as we arrived here together, we know how to continue the journey. If resignation becomes a possibility, I will speak to the players, but that is not on our agenda.”