A Historic Return and Montella's Masterplan
For the first time since their unforgettable third-place finish in 2002, Turkey has qualified for the FIFA World Cup. Navigating a tense playoff path against Romania and Kosovo after finishing second in their qualifying group, Vincenzo Montella's side has ended a 24-year exile. The Italian manager, affectionately known as 'L'Aeroplanino', has immersed himself in Turkish culture and united the squad, opting for an attacking 4-2-3-1 setup. Montella recently announced an extended 35-man provisional squad packed with attacking talent, which will be whittled down to 26 players by June 2. "I wouldn't trade these players for anyone," Montella stated, praising their ability to make sacrifices.
The Wonderkids: Güler and Yıldız Take Center Stage
The undisputed stars of this Turkish side are 21-year-old Arda Güler and Juventus attacker Kenan Yıldız. Güler, fresh off being named the Revelation of the Season in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid, handles immense pressure with ease and serves as the team's primary creative spark. Alongside these prodigies, seasoned veterans like Inter Milan's Hakan Çalhanoğlu—who assumes a deep-lying playmaker role—and Beşiktaş midfielder Orkun Kökçü provide crucial stability. The defense remains solid with Galatasaray's Abdülkerim Bardakcı and Al-Ahli's Merih Demiral anchoring the backline.
Group D Challenges and Preparations in Arizona
Turkey has been drawn into Group D, where they will face Australia, Paraguay, and co-hosts USA. Their campaign begins on June 14 against Australia at BC Place in Vancouver, followed by clashes in Santa Clara and Los Angeles. Ahead of the tournament, the Crescent Stars have set up their training camp in the United States. Just days before the World Cup begins, Team Turkey is holding practices in front of sold-out crowds at the Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa, embracing the local support and a welcoming atmosphere that includes authentic Turkish cultural events.
