Prominent Turkish journalist and Milliyet columnist Attila Gökçe has called for Vincenzo Montella to step down as head coach of the Türkiye national team.
As reported by İdman.Biz, Gökçe acknowledged the Italian specialist's achievements but argued that the national team now needs a change.
"Vincenzo Montella is a good person and a good coach. He gave us wonderful days and achieved impressive results. But has he delivered sustainable development and taken the team to the next level? No. He certainly deserves our gratitude. The farewell should be dignified and respectful. But, in fairness, the Montella era should come to an end," Gökçe wrote in his column.
The journalist cited Türkiye's recent results in the UEFA Nations League as well as several of Montella's tactical and personnel decisions. In particular, he criticised the coach's preference for playing without a traditional centre-forward, his team selection against Italy and what he viewed as the insufficient use of certain players.
Gökçe also questioned Montella's decision to start Altay Bayındır in goal despite his lack of playing time at Celta, instead of Okan Kocuk. He also argued that Montella failed to use Arda Güler effectively, leaving the midfielder with an excessive workload during the match.
The Milliyet columnist concluded his assessment with a striking message to the Italian coach.
"This love has gone cold. The relationship has run its course. It is time to say goodbye. I don't know what decision the TFF will make. Speaking for myself, I say: 'Addio Signore.' Goodbye, mister!" Gökçe wrote.
Türkiye have made a poor start to the new UEFA Nations League campaign. Montella's side suffered two home defeats in their opening Group A1 matches, losing 1-0 to France before a 4-1 defeat against Italy.
After two rounds, Türkiye remain without a point and sit bottom of Group A1.
