Orkun Kökçü Withdraws from Türkiye Squad Ahead of Nations League Matches
Orkun Kökçü has been officially withdrawn from Türkiye’s senior national team squad after medical examinations confirmed an injury to his right toe. The 25-year-old midfielder will miss the upcoming Nations League fixtures and return to Lisbon to continue his recovery with Benfica’s medical staff.
Kökçü reported acute pain during training while on international duty. Türkiye’s medical team carried out clinical assessments and diagnostic tests to establish the cause and extent of the problem. Their evaluation identified physical trauma to the toe, making the midfielder unavailable for the team’s planned tactical work and match selection.
The Turkish Football Federation confirmed that the decision to remove him from the squad was made after the examinations. Kökçü is now leaving the national team camp, with his recovery to be managed by Benfica’s medical department. No further details about the expected length of his absence have been announced.
His withdrawal is a setback for head coach Vincenzo Montella. Kökçü is an important option in central midfield, particularly as a deep-lying playmaker who can help link defence and attack. His passing, composure in possession and ability to organise play give Türkiye a different profile in the middle of the pitch.
The former Feyenoord captain’s absence will require Montella to adjust his plans for the Nations League games. However, the coaching staff will not bring in another player to replace him. Instead, Türkiye will rely on the midfielders already in camp and assess the available options as preparations continue.
Borussia Dortmund’s Salih Özcan and Fenerbahçe’s İsmail Yüksek are among the players who could help cover central midfield duties. Their roles and responsibilities may vary depending on the opponent and the way Montella wants the team to approach each match. The decision not to call up a replacement means the current squad will need to provide the necessary depth.
For Türkiye, the immediate priority is to adapt without disrupting the team’s overall balance. Kökçü’s absence may affect how the side progresses the ball through midfield, but it also gives other players an opportunity to take on greater responsibility. Training sessions will help the coaching staff determine which combination offers the strongest balance between defensive cover and forward movement.
The injury also places attention on Kökçü’s recovery timeline. A toe problem can affect running, turning and contact with the ball, all of which are essential for a central midfielder. Benfica’s medical team will be able to monitor his progress and guide his return to training, although the precise treatment plan has not been made public.
At this stage, the confirmed information is limited to the injury, the player’s departure from the Türkiye camp and the decision against adding a replacement. Any assessment of when Kökçü may return to club or international action will depend on how the injury responds to treatment. Türkiye will proceed with its Nations League preparations using the players already selected, while Benfica oversees the midfielder’s rehabilitation in Lisbon.