Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has returned to management, taking on the role of head coach at Besiktas, a significant step in his coaching career after a two-year hiatus following his departure from Manchester United in November 2021. The Norwegian, who is well-known for his time at United, has signed a contract with Besiktas that lasts until the end of the 2024-2025 season, with an option for an additional year. This marks his first managerial role since his tenure at Old Trafford, where he led the club for nearly three years before being dismissed despite an overall positive win rate of 54.17% from 168 matches in all competitions.
Solskjaer sees notable parallels between the task ahead at Besiktas and his previous work at Manchester United. Reflecting on his time at United, where he helped the team progress from sixth place to second in the Premier League, Solskjaer shared his optimism for similar success at Besiktas. "This project seems a little bit like Manchester United to me. We were sixth, then we became third and then second," he remarked. He is eager to make a swift impact but also understands the importance of managing expectations as he gets to grips with his new role.
Besiktas, currently in sixth place in the Turkish Super Lig, has been without a permanent head coach since Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s departure in November. The club has struggled for consistency this season, and the appointment of Solskjaer is hoped to bring a sense of stability and vision. Solskjaer revealed that while he had received several offers since leaving Manchester United, it was Besiktas' ambitious project and potential that convinced him to make the move. “I felt it was worth leaving my comfortable life for,” he explained.
After more than three years away from management, Solskjaer expressed excitement about returning to the dugout, saying that he could feel his "heartbeat racing again." His first challenge with Besiktas will be in the Europa League against Athletic Club, with the team currently ranked 28th in the league standings and just one point away from play-off positions.
Solskjaer’s approach will likely be built on the same principles that guided his time at United, where his focus on youth development, attacking football, and creating a strong team spirit became the hallmark of his tenure. During his time at United, Solskjaer’s average points per game was 1.81, and he helped the club secure second place in the 2020-2021 season, their highest finish since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
Besiktas fans are hopeful that Solskjaer’s experience, combined with his understanding of the pressures of managing a large club, can bring success in both domestic and international competitions. With his deep understanding of European football, the challenge of lifting Besiktas from its current standing will be an exciting new chapter in his managerial career.
The appointment of Solskjaer has been met with optimism, and his progress at Besiktas will be closely watched as he looks to build a competitive team, navigate tough challenges in the Super Lig, and possibly lead the club to further European glory.
