Terim: Italy have ‘significant potential’ but no identity

Terim: Italy have ‘significant potential’ but no identity Former Fiorentina and Milan coach Fatih Terim insists Italy must ‘rediscover identity and competitiveness’ and backs the Turkish FA’s decision to confirm Vincenzo Montella in charge despite a disappointing World Cup exit. Italy visit Vincenzo Montella’s Turkiye in the second match of the 2026-27 Nations League group phase tonight. Both sides lost their opening games against Belgium and France, respectively. “It’s an extremely important match, because both Italy and Turkiye need a win,” Terim told Gazzetta. ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 25: Mika Godts of Belgium scores a opening goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Italy and Belgium at Stadio Olimpico on September 25, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi/Getty Images) “We know how difficult a period your national team is going through, but this is also a good opportunity for Turkiye to restart after the World Cup.” As Serie A fans know, Turkish stars Kenan Yildiz and Hakan Calhanoglu are injured, so they won’t feature tonight. “Their absence will be felt, as both teams have quality. However, Turkiye also has extraordinary talents like Arda Güler and the very promising Can Uzun. Matches like this are opportunities to take on responsibility,” Terim said. Tonight’s match is also derby between ex-Italy and Sampdoria strikers Mancini and Montella. “I know Montella very well and have followed both his playing and coaching careers,” Terim said. INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 24: Head coach Vincenzo Montella of Türkiye talks to the media during a press conference one day ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between Türkiye and USA at Los Angeles Stadium on June 24, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) “He is a coach who understands football, reads the game well, and has his own ideas. The decision to continue with Vincenzo after the World Cup reflects the trust the Federation places in him and the work he is doing. I have always favoured stability because it takes time for a team to find a certain style of play. Considering that a few years ago we were in League C of the Nations League, he and the squad deserve praise.” Italy have not qualified for the last three editions of the World Cup, which has surprised Terim. “Italy have won so much and left their mark on football history. Even a single absence was a huge disappointment; three consecutive ones demand very serious reflection. In recent years, Italy won Euro 21, Atalanta conquered the Europa League, and Roma lifted the Conference League. “Furthermore, Fiorentina reached the Conference League final, Napoli built a genuine footballing philosophy, and Inter reached the Champions League final twice. Therefore, your footballing movement’s potential remains significant. “That said, many factors need to be considered: the development of youth academies, the opportunities offered to young players, and clubs’ transfer market policies,” Terim continued. Fatih Terim at Galatasaray. “From a tactical perspective, Italy have always represented a fundamental school, but football is constantly evolving, and today you cannot survive solely on tactics, defensive organisation, or past successes. All aspects need to be developed. You need time and an adequate plan for reconstruction, because it’s not just about qualifying for the World Cup, but about Italian football rediscovering its identity and competitiveness.” Roberto Mancini has returned for a second stint as the Nazionale coach, signing a contract until 2030. “He is a hugely important coach, and we cannot forget that he led Italy to European Championship glory,” Terim concluded. “The football played by that Italy side, the players’ self-belief, and the unbeaten run they achieved were truly remarkable. Of course, his return alone isn’t enough to solve all the problems. He has a great responsibility ahead of him, but also the necessary experience to succeed.”