The Turkish Football Federation has appointed Vincenzo Montella as head coach and Inter Milan star Hakan Calhanoglu has immediately told him where he wishes to play.
The 29-year-old has been a stalwart for the Nerazzurri since making the crosstown switch from AC Milan in the summer of 2021.
A stat revealed how the club’s winning percentage plummets when the Turkish star is absent from the team.
This year, Inter coach Simone Inzaghi has gradually transformed Calhanoglu from an attacking midfielder into a deep-lying playmaker.
It all started last season with Marcelo Brozovic out injured. With the Croatian now out of the club, Hakan is the undisputed first choice for the Regista role.
Therefore, the former Bayer Leverkusen now wishes to operate in a similar role with his national team.
“It’s not true that the national team players asked for a Turkish. We will work with whoever is in charge,” insisted the Nerazzurri star in an interview with TRT Spor via FcInter1908.
“The Federation’s directors only asked me about my opinion, since I’m the national team’s captain.
“The new coach must know how Turkey plays. We need to have a well-defined system. For instance, my role is different now. With Inter, I have been playing as a Number 6 (Regista) for two seasons now.”
Inter Milan Midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu Wants To Play As A Regista For Turkiye
“I had no problems with Kuntz. He was very positive and friendly but he’s more used to being a youth team coach.
“He might have a great relationship with the young players but some behaviors might not be accepted by some senior players.
“I have nothing to do with Emre Mor’s exclusion, or anyone else’s absence for that matter.
“There is actually a good atmosphere in the national team.”
