Ole Solskjaer backs Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi to ignite Beşiktaş’ title ambitions

Beşiktaş manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has outlined the reasons behind the club’s decision to bring in Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.

The Turkish side bolstered their team with summer signing of Ndidi on a three-year contract, aiming to challenge reigning champions Galatasaray for the Turkish Super Lig crown when the new season kicks off on Friday.

Solskjaer, speaking about the transfer, made it clear that Ndidi’s signing is a statement of intent from the club that they want to win the title.

“We signed Ndidi because we want players who can compete for the title. I remember him from when Leicester beat my Manchester United side. I know exactly how much he can contribute to this team.”

Ndidi’s transfer marks the end of a highly successful eight-and-a-half-year spell at Leicester City, where he became one of the most respected defensive midfielders in the Premier League. During his time at the King Power Stadium, he made over 300 appearances, scored 18 goals, and was a crucial part of the team that secured the FA Cup and Community Shield.

Beşiktaş completed the deal after Ndidi passed his medical, with Solskjaer confident the Super Eagles star will be a key asset in their title push.

The club’s opening match against Kayserispor has been postponed, meaning Ndidi is expected to make his debut in the second round of fixtures. He will resume training with the squad this weekend.