Surprise Turn: Besiktas legend emerges as frontrunner for Turkey manager role

Following four consecutive defeats in UEFA Nations League A, the Turkish national team is closing in on the appointment of a new head coach. The Turkish Football Federation parted ways with Vincenzo Montella and immediately launched the search for his successor.

Contrary to initial reports tipping Shakhtar Donetsk manager Arda Turan as the leading candidate, a new favourite has emerged to succeed the Italian tactician: former Besiktas manager and club legend Sergen Yalcin.

Turkish football governing body officials have already held talks with the 53-year-old tactician. Negotiations are expected to reach a successful conclusion shortly, with reports suggesting Yalcin could be officially unveiled tomorrow or Wednesday at the latest.

The former midfielder has managed exclusively in the Turkish league throughout his coaching career, having taken charge of boyhood club Besiktas twice, as well as serving two stints at Gaziantep along with spells at Sivasspor, Eskisehirspor, Konyaspor, Antalyaspor, and others.

Turkey will resume their Nations League campaign next month, hosting Belgium in Izmir on 12 November before travelling to face France three days later in their final group match. Sergen Yalcin is widely expected to lead the team from the dugout for both upcoming fixtures.