In a surprising turn of events, former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is set to make his coaching comeback with Turkish giants Besiktas. The Norwegian tactician, who has been out of work since parting ways with the Red Devils in 2021, arrived in Istanbul on Friday to finalize an 18-month deal with the 21-time Super Lig champions.
A New Chapter for Solskjaer
Solskjaer’s appointment at Besiktas marks the beginning of a new chapter in his managerial career. After a rollercoaster tenure at Old Trafford, which saw him lead United to a second-place finish in the Premier League and a Europa League final, the 51-year-old will be eager to prove his worth in a new environment.
I am very happy to be here. It is great to have so many people here for this great club. We have had our first meetings. I am looking forward to starting my job. It is great to be in this great city.
– Ole Gunnar Solskjaer upon arriving in Istanbul
Besiktas’ Struggles and Solskjaer’s Challenge
Besiktas, despite their storied history and passionate fan base, have been struggling in recent times. Currently languishing in sixth place in the Super Lig, the Black Eagles have been without a head coach since the departure of Giovanni van Bronckhorst last month. Solskjaer’s primary task will be to steady the ship and guide Besiktas back to the top of Turkish football.
- Reviving Besiktas’ fortunes
- Instilling a winning mentality
- Developing young talent
Mourinho Rivalry Renewed
One intriguing subplot to Solskjaer’s appointment is the prospect of reigniting his rivalry with Jose Mourinho. The Portuguese maestro, who preceded Solskjaer at Manchester United, is currently in charge of Fenerbahce, Besiktas’ fierce city rivals. With both teams vying for supremacy in Istanbul and the Super Lig, the stage is set for a captivating battle between the two former United managers.
| Manager | Club | Position |
| Ole Gunnar Solskjaer | Besiktas | 6th |
| Jose Mourinho | Fenerbahce | 2nd |
Looking Ahead
As Solskjaer prepares to take charge of Besiktas, fans and pundits alike will be keenly observing his progress. Can the Norwegian recapture the magic that made him a beloved figure at Manchester United? Will he be able to outwit his old foe Mourinho and lead Besiktas to glory? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – the Turkish Super Lig just got a whole lot more interesting.
