13.10.2026 13:32
After Vincenzo Montella's departure from the Turkish National Team, while eyes turned to Arda Turan, a surprise name came to the agenda. Italian head coach Francesco Calzona, who most recently managed the Slovakian National Team, announced that he is open to taking a role in Turkey.
While the search for a head coach continues in the Turkish National Football Team, a surprise development occurred. After parting ways with Vincenzo Montella, while it was claimed that the Turkish Football Federation's priority is Arda Turan, it was stated that Italian head coach Francesco Calzona is also among the candidates.
WHILE EVERYONE WAS WAITING FOR ARDA TURAN, THE ITALIAN COACH CAME ON THE AGENDA
It was claimed that the TFF's first choice was Arda Turan, who coaches Shakhtar Donetsk. However, it was learned that alternative names are also being considered in case no agreement can be reached with the 39-year-old head coach. It was stated that one of these names is Francesco Calzona, who most recently coached the Slovakian National Team. It was reported that the Italian head coach was offered to the Turkish National Team through his agents.
"IT WOULD BE A GREAT HONOR FOR ME TO COACH TURKEY"
Speaking to HT Spor, Calzona made striking statements about the Turkey possibility.
"My agent warned me to be prepared for a new upcoming job. Of course, if it is the Turkish National Team, it would be a great honor for me. After a wonderful period in Slovakia, managing Turkey would be a privilege."
A STATEMENT ALSO CAME FROM HIS STAFF
Marco Brini, an analyst working in Calzona's team, also evaluated the Turkey possibility. Stating that he was not familiar with the details of the matter, Brini said that they had some contacts in Turkey and that taking a role in the Turkish National Team would be a nice experience for them.
THE FINAL DECISION IS TFF'S
While it was claimed that Arda Turan is the priority candidate, Francesco Calzona's also being interested in the role added a new dimension to the head coach search. It has not yet become clear which name the TFF will reach an agreement with.