Montella: Türkiye Reached a New Level, Outplayed Italy

Vincenzo Montella believes Turkiye has advanced to a new stage in the Nations League, even though they lost 3-1 to Italy. He noted Italy's significant financial advantage in player substitutions.

Turkiye delivered a strong overall performance, controlling possession and forcing saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma. Aral Simsir scored a deserved equalizer, canceling out Gianluca Scamacca's opener.

However, late goals from substitutes Riccardo Calafiori and Pio Esposito secured Italy's 3-1 victory. Turkiye remains with zero points after four matches.

“I’m not sure frustration is the word, but we played well,” Montella told RAI Sport. “We matched them, perhaps even played a bit better than Italy. We conceded three goals due to specific incidents, which has happened before.

“As a coach, I’m pleased with the players' attitude and spirit. My only criticism is their decision-making with the final pass or failing to close down runs into the box. This is football; such details matter at this level.

“I’m confident these matches will provide valuable experience. Mistakes at this level are punished immediately and decide the outcome. Often, the result colors how a performance is perceived.”

Montella faced pressure prior to this game, having exited the 2026 World Cup early and losing all four Nations League matches. However, he guided Turkiye to their first World Cup qualification in 24 years and secured promotion to Nations League A.

“This isn’t about things not working; it’s simply a new level for us,” he stated. “Football can be straightforward: you miss key players who significantly impact the team’s quality. We’re continuing this process, which is also crucial for Euro qualification.”

Turkiye missed key players like Juventus's Kenan Yildiz and Inter's Hakan Calhanoglu due to injury throughout the Nations League campaign. In the Italy match, they also lacked the suspended Baris Alper Yilmaz and Real Madrid's Arda Guler.

“We fielded young players with limited experience, even at club level, because we are focused on the future. Italy brought on players like Calafiori, Esposito, and Sandro Tonali, representing a combined transfer value of around €350 million. Given this, no one can be blamed, especially the players who competed effectively for long stretches, both tactically and technically, against a strong opponent.”

Montella risks relegation back to Nations League B, with the primary issue being their inability to convert chances.

“Italy is developing well with exciting young talent. I also saw their Under-21 team playing today. While they might not have the household names of the past, they are a highly competitive squad, managed by a smart, experienced, and balanced coach like Roberto Mancini.”