An unexpected incident has shaken the Turkish national team’s camp ahead of their next step toward the 2026 World Cup. Lille goalkeeper Berke Özer abruptly left the national team setup under confusing circumstances, sparking frustration within the coaching staff. The situation prompted a strong statement from the Turkish Football Federation (TFF), emphasizing discipline and respect at a decisive stage of qualification.

Why did Berke Özer leave the national team camp?

According to the TFF, the goalkeeper “voluntarily left the camp after the team’s return to Istanbul” following his exclusion from the squad for the 6–1 win against Bulgaria. The statement added that Özer departed “without permission from the technical or administrative staff,” a move deemed unacceptable given the importance of unity in the team’s World Cup campaign.

The federation’s statement read:

“The responsibility and honor of wearing the national team jersey transcend everything else. Discipline, respect, and team spirit are our most fundamental principles, and we will never abandon them.”

Head coach Vincenzo Montella started Uğurcan Çakır (Galatasaray) in goal, with Mert Günok (Beşiktaş) and Altay Bayındır (Manchester United) on the bench. The absence of Özer, who recently gained attention in the Europa League for saving three consecutive penalties against AS Roma, stood out given his recent form.

What did Berke Özer say after the controversy?

Through his social media accounts, Özer denied leaving the camp without authorization and questioned the technical staff’s decisions, claiming they were “not based on performance.”

The 24-year-old, who has two senior caps for Turkey, defended his professionalism and insisted he never intended to create conflict within the team.

In his place, the TFF called up Muhammed Şengezer from Başakşehir for Tuesday’s crucial qualifier against Georgia, which could be key in maintaining momentum in Group E.

How is Turkey doing in World Cup qualifying?

Following their victory in Sofia, Turkey sits second in Group E with six points from three games — three behind Spain, the current leaders.

The Turkish side will aim to strengthen their position when they host Georgia in Istanbul on Tuesday, before closing the year with two more fixtures: a home match against Bulgaria and an away rematch with Georgia in November.

Beyond the controversy, the Berke Özer incident highlights the growing pressure surrounding Turkey as they fight to return to a World Cup after more than two decades of absence.