02.06.2026 00:00
National Team Head Coach Vincenzo Montella spoke after the victory against North Macedonia. Montella, who specifically highlighted the performances of Can Uzun, Aral Şimşir, and Deniz Gül, said, "We already knew they could deliver such a performance. They are integrating into the National Team, and I am especially happy for them. I am not planning for today, but for the future."
National Team Head Coach Vincenzo Montella made statements after the 4-0 victory against North Macedonia in the first preparatory match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
"MY MESSAGE TO THE TURKISH PEOPLE..."
Evaluating the match, Vincenzo Montella said, "I am very pleased with the game and the score. We took the field seriously and showed our stance. We saw players who have had less playing time. We finished without conceding a goal, and we are happy. My message to the Turkish people: our energy is at its peak. We want to make everyone proud. We want to make our nation happy; we will be on the field with our hearts. We will do our best."
LATEST STATUS OF INJURED PLAYERS
Speaking about the latest status of the injured players, Montella stated, "We have nearly two weeks. There are players who need to regain their fitness. Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Kenan Yıldız, Kerem Aktürkoğlu, Arda Güler... For Arda, we saw a very important half hour. Ferdi Kadıoğlu also came with a minor injury. We haven't been able to train him yet. We will try to get him close to 100%, even if not fully, for the first match."
"I BELIEVE IN THEM!"
Highlighting three of his players specifically, Montella commented, "I am satisfied with the performances of Can Uzun, Aral Şimşir, and Deniz Gül. We already knew they could deliver this performance. They are integrating into the National Team; I am especially happy for them. I am planning not just today but also the future. I called and played Can Uzun even when he was in the 2nd League. Kenan Yıldız was here even when he was playing for Juventus's second team. So, including the young players here is very valuable. I believe in Can Uzun and Deniz Gül! If I didn't believe, I wouldn't be here!"
RESPONSE TO DEPARTURE RUMORS
Responding to the question, "Do you want to leave the National Team after the World Cup?", Vincenzo Montella said: "Honestly, I have said it myself; I don't even want to comment! All my energy and love are for the National Team... I told my manager, 'If someone calls, don't bring it to me.' My entire focus is here."