Montella: Illogical Criticism Hurts; Focus on Future, Not Worst-Case Scenarios

Vincenzo Montella, coach of the Turkish national team, spoke ahead of their match against Italy in the Nations League. He acknowledged the team's performance hasn't met expectations but defended their efforts, stating, "For large parts of the three matches, we competed, and the score remained close for some stretches, except for the game against Italy. We are motivated and eager to achieve results, as just competing isn't enough."

The team will be without key players like Guler, Calhanoglu, and Yildiz. Montella noted, "Guler, Calhanoglu, and Yildiz will be absent. They are vital players for us, just as they are for their clubs. However, this provides an opportunity to evaluate new players. I am confident we will be competitive despite the absences and will aim for a win."

Montella addressed the criticism he has faced, particularly after the World Cup exit. "I understand football dynamics and accept them. What I cannot accept are illogical criticisms. Constructive feedback, however, I appreciate. We are competing in Nations League A for the first time in our history, and I am the only coach to have achieved this for Turkey. We aim for competitive matches like the one against France or the second half against Italy, but we're struggling to score. Against Belgium, we reached their penalty area 42 times, and I wondered what more I could do. Criticisms hurt me. A few days ago, I was asked if I knew a striker who scored nearly 100 goals in the Turkish third division, only to find out he was 32 years old. If he were a promising player, I would have considered him, but these illogical criticisms are hurtful."

Regarding disappointment after the World Cup, Montella commented, "It's understandable that people are disappointed with our early exit from the World Cup. Our key players weren't at their best. This is one perspective, but football always presents new opportunities and goals. We should use that elimination as a catalyst for growth." He hasn't been in recent contact with Yildiz, apart from before and after his surgery. Montella also expressed positive sentiments about Zeki Celik's development, stating, "He has grown significantly in the last two years and become physically resilient. He continues to improve with Spalletti, and I found him in good form."

On his own future and the possibility of the Italy match being his last with Turkey, Montella said, "I am approaching it with motivation. I am determined and a professional who always gives his all with willingness, passion, and a clear conscience. This is my mindset, and I am confident, though I know football's dynamics well. I do not want to think about the worst."