Montella: ‘Don’t Want to Think Negatively, Will Not Accept Illogical Criticism’ Ahead of Italy Clash

FolioPitch.com – 06 October 2026 | Vincenzo Montella has made his stance clear: he will not entertain negative thoughts and will not tolerate illogical criticism as Turkey prepare to face Italy in a crucial Nations League A1 encounter at the Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna on Monday. The Italian tactician, under mounting pressure after a disappointing start to the campaign, insisted that his focus remains on delivering a competitive performance. “Montella Don t want to think negatively will not accept illogical criticism,” he told reporters, setting the tone for a defiant press conference.

Turkey have endured a torrid beginning to their Nations League A campaign, suffering three straight defeats: a narrow 1-0 loss to France, a heavy 4-1 defeat to Italy, and a 3-0 reverse away to Belgium. Those results have left them rooted to the bottom of Group A1 with zero points and a goal difference of -7, sparking calls for Montella’s dismissal. Yet the coach remains resolute, stating, “I am accustomed to the dynamics of football, I know and accept them. What I cannot accept is illogical criticism.”

Montella’s record since taking charge of Turkey in October 2023 is far from poor: 21 victories, five draws, and 13 defeats. He guided the nation to promotion to Nations League A and secured qualification for their first World Cup in 24 years. However, a group-stage exit at the 2026 World Cup and the current losing streak have intensified scrutiny. “It is the first time in Turkey’s history that we are in the Nations League A, and I am the only coach to have taken us to that level,” he pointed out, defending his tenure.

Injuries have compounded Turkey’s woes. Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz and Inter midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu are both sidelined, while Real Madrid prodigy Arda Guler is suspended following his red card against Belgium. “These are all important players for us, just as they are for their respective clubs. Nonetheless, this is a good opportunity to see new players in action and get to evaluate them,” Montella said. “I am confident we’ll be competitive despite the absences, and try to bring home a victory.”

The coach also hit back at critics who have questioned his squad selection. He recounted a recent suggestion to call up a 32-year-old striker who had scored nearly 100 goals in the Turkish third division, dismissing it as illogical. “If it had been someone we could develop for the future, I would’ve taken him into consideration, but this kind of illogical criticism hurts me,” he admitted. Once again, the message was clear: Montella Don t want to think negatively will not accept illogical criticism.

Looking ahead to the Italy match, Montella acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic. “We want to win, compete and challenge ourselves at this level. For most of the three games, we had our say and the result was in the balance for long periods, except for the match with Italy. We are motivated, curious to see what happens and eager to get a result, because just playing on level terms is not sufficient.”

The encounter carries extra significance for Montella, who will face his former Sampdoria teammate Roberto Mancini on the touchline. When asked if this might be his final game in charge, he replied, “I am determined, motivated and a professional who always gives his all with passion and a pure heart. This is my state of mind, even though I know the dynamics of football all too well. I don’t want to think negatively.”

Group A1 standings after three matches:

Despite the bleak table, Montella remains defiant. “I understand people might be upset after the early World Cup exit, but we went into the tournament with our top players not in great shape. This can be one way of reading it, but in football there are always new objectives and opportunities, so we must learn from that elimination and develop.”

In conclusion, Vincenzo Montella’s unwavering belief in his methods and his refusal to succumb to negativity will be tested against Italy. Whether he can turn Turkey’s fortunes around remains to be seen, but for now, he stands firm: Montella Don t want to think negatively will not accept illogical criticism.