The Turkish national team’s last-minute victory in their European Championship qualifying match against Latvia was cause for celebration.[expander_maker id=”1″ ] However, it is reported that tensions escalated during halftime, leading to the potential dismissal of national coach Stefan Kuntz. Allegedly, a successor has already been identified.

Speculations Surround Stefan Kuntz’s Potential Departure as Turkey’s National Coach

Rumors are circulating in Turkey about the possible removal of Stefan Kuntz as the coach of the national team. The newspaper “Aksam,” for instance, reported that the 1996 European champion would be replaced by former national coach Abdullah Avci. There were also suggestions that former World Cup winner Mesut Özil could replace former Bayern Munich player Hamit Altintop as the team’s manager. Although other media outlets reported on this matter, no sources were cited.

Association Favors a Turkish National Coach Once Again

According to “Aksam,” there were allegations of a heated dispute between Kuntz and the team during halftime of the European Championship qualifying match against Latvia (3-2). It was stated that Kuntz had become “almost a persona non grata.” Additionally, the president of the Turkish Football Association reportedly prefers to see a Turkish coach leading the team.

Decisions regarding potential replacements are expected to be made on June 22, according to media reports. Kuntz had signed a three-year contract as Turkey’s national coach in September 2021.[/expander_maker]