Ole gets off to a flyer! New Besiktas boss Solskjaer claims emphatic Europa League victory over Athletic Club in first game in charge

The Norwegian coach, appointed just days earlier, oversaw a dominant performance that breathed new life into the Turkish side's Europa League campaign. Prior to his arrival, Besiktas had endured a disappointing run in European competition, securing only two wins in six matches while losing the remaining four. The team’s hopes of advancing seemed dim, but Solskjaer’s influence appears to have rejuvenated the squad.

Besiktas wasted no time making their intentions clear. Milot Rashica opened the scoring in the 17th minute, capitalising on an early opportunity to put the home side ahead. However, Bilbao’s Unai Gomez had other plans, levelling the score just before halftime. Rashica was once again at the forefront, reclaiming the lead for Besiktas with his second goal of the night just 15 minutes into the second half.

The Spanish side’s hopes of a comeback were extinguished late in the match when Rashica completed his hat trick, securing a commanding lead for Besiktas. Whereas, Portuguese midfielder Joao Mario added the finishing touch in stoppage time, confidently converting a penalty to make it 4-1.

Solskjaer took charge of Manchester United in 2018 and led the Red Devils in nearly 150 games. He inspired them to a second-place finish in the Premier League and also guided them to a Europa League final in the 2020-21 campaign.

Building on the European success, Solskjaer will aim to replicate their strong performance in the domestic league, where Besiktas will face Antalyaspor on Sunday.