Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has returned to management after a three-year absence, now leading Besiktas. The 51-year-old previously managed Manchester United, where he was dismissed in November 2021 following a surprising 4-1 loss to Watford.
Last year, Solskjaer was in discussions to coach Sweden’s national team, but Jon Dahl Tomasson ultimately secured that position. Now, he is ready to embark on a new journey in Turkey, marking his return to club football.
Besiktas announced their talks with Solskjaer on Friday morning, sharing an image of him in the club’s scarf. His appointment means he will face Fenerbahce’s Jose Mourinho, whom he replaced at Old Trafford in December 2018.
However, their first clash will occur in May, allowing both teams time to prepare. Reports indicate that Besiktas pursued Solskjaer after Niko Kovac, the former Bayern Munich coach, declined the position.
Since parting ways with Giovanni van Bronckhorst in December, Besiktas has sought a new manager. Following the Dutchman’s departure, Serdar Topraktepe took over on an interim basis.
Currently, Besiktas ranks sixth in the league, trailing leaders Galatasaray by 20 points. Solskjaer hopes his seasoned players will elevate their performance this season, with the Turkish Cup still up for grabs.
He will rely on former Arsenal players Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Gabriel Paulista, along with Euro 2020 champion Ciro Immobile. Solskjaer’s debut match will be against Athletic Bilbao next Wednesday.
He is expected to attend the league match against Samsunspor on Saturday at Besiktas Stadium. Recently, Solskjaer expressed that he would only return to management for the right opportunity.
In November, he stated, “I can pick and choose my opportunities, and I am fortunate.” He emphasized the need for excitement and the right people to motivate him.
Solskjaer also revealed that he turned down two managerial offers during his break from football. He explained, “The travel time was a factor, so I decided against those options.”