Ndidi Begins New Chapter with Besiktas Under Italiano

Wilfred Ndidi will start the next season under the new management of Vincenzo Italiano at Besiktas, as confirmed by the Turkish club on Saturday. This appointment ends a week of speculation regarding the club's rebuilding efforts after a deeply disappointing campaign.

Italiano, 48, has signed a contract that will run until the end of the 2027-28 season. He previously managed Bologna and spent two seasons in Serie A, with his last role being at Fiorentina and Spezia.

His appointment follows the exit of Sergen Yalcin, whose departure was confirmed after Besiktas endured one of the worst seasons in the club's recent history, finishing fourth in the Super Lig, trailing champions Galatasaray by 17 points. Ndidi, a 29-year-old defensive midfielder, joined Besiktas from Leicester City in August 2025 for a fee of €8 million, signing a three-year contract with an option for an additional year.

He served as vice-captain from October 2025 and made 25 appearances, contributing two goals and one assist. However, Turkish sports commentator Mustafa Demirta expressed concerns that Ndidi may not fit Italiano's tactical system.