Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Set to Take Charge of Besiktas

Former Man Utd Manager Returns to Club Football

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the former Manchester United player and manager, is on the brink of becoming the head coach of Turkish giants Besiktas. This appointment marks his return to club management after more than two years away, following his dismissal from United in November 2021.

During his time away from coaching, Solskjaer worked as a match analyst for UEFA, frequently attending Premier League fixtures. However, he is now poised to return to the dugout and reignite his managerial career.

Besiktas Welcomes Solskjaer to Istanbul

In a statement on their official website, Besiktas confirmed Solskjaer’s arrival in Istanbul:
“Norwegian Technical Director Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with whom we have started negotiations for the Technical Directorship of our Football A Team, has arrived in Istanbul.”

The statement also revealed that Solskjaer was welcomed at Istanbul Ataturk Airport by Besiktas Vice President Hakan Daltaban, Vice President Kaan Kasaci, and Board Member Merve Oztopaloglu.

Speaking to reporters upon his arrival, Solskjaer expressed his enthusiasm:
“I am very happy to be here. It is great that so many people are here for this great club. We have had the first meetings. I am looking forward to starting my job. It is great to be in this great city.”

Besiktas’ Turbulent Season

Solskjaer’s arrival comes after a challenging period for Besiktas. Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who took over in the summer, enjoyed a strong start, including a 5-0 victory over Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Cup. However, poor results in the league led to his dismissal in November.

Interim manager Serdar Topraktep has struggled to reverse the team’s fortunes, leaving Besiktas sixth in the Turkish Süper Lig, just one point away from European qualification spots.

The managerial turnover mirrors instability at the boardroom level, with three different presidents overseeing the club this season. Serdal Adali has held the position since late December.

Renewal of Rivalries with Jose Mourinho

Solskjaer’s appointment also sets up a potential renewal of rivalries with Jose Mourinho, the current manager of Fenerbahce. Mourinho was the Manchester United coach whom Solskjaer replaced in March 2019. Their head-to-head history includes notable clashes, such as Mourinho’s Tottenham defeating Solskjaer’s United 6-1 in October 2020. However, Solskjaer secured victories in their other encounters.