Arda Turan to be Turkey's new head coach

Arda Turan is the leading candidate to become the new head coach of Turkey's national football team, according to media reports on 8 October 2026. Current coach Vincenzo Montella is expected to leave following a run of poor results.

Shakhtar role and dual-management idea under consideration

The former Turkish international has been the manager of Shakhtar Donetsk since 2025. Turkish Football Federation officials are said to be exploring a model that would allow Turan to continue at Shakhtar while also taking charge of the national team.

Montella has come under intense pressure after losing all four of Turkey's opening matches in the new Nations League season. In those games Turkey scored only two goals and conceded 11, a return that has amplified criticism of the Italian coach.

If Turan is appointed, federation leaders will face the practical challenge of balancing club and national team calendars and duties. The proposed dual-role model would be unusual at international level and would require clear agreements between the parties.

The coming days are likely to bring clarification on Montella's future and whether the federation will offer Turan the post and the unusual arrangement being discussed.

Photo: press material from the event