Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella says six key players are missing for Italy match in UEFA Nations League

Turkey's national football team, coached by Vincenzo Montella, is set to play Italy in a UEFA Nations League A match on October 5, 2026, at the Renato Dall'Ara Stadium in Bologna. Montella, in a press conference, expressed his desire to win despite Turkey's lack of experience at this level. He noted the absence of key players like Arda, Kenan, Hakan, Barış, Orkun, and Mert, but saw it as an opportunity for new players. He also defended his players against criticism, citing their efforts in previous matches, including 42 penalty-area entries without scoring against Belgium.