Ex-Man Utd boss Solskjaer reveals he took Besiktas job over bizarre coincidence that’s all down to his daughter
FORMER Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed that his daughter was behind his return to management last week.
Solskjaer was announced as the new boss of Turkish giants Besiktas on Friday, taking his first job in management since being sacked as United boss back in 2021.
The 51-year-old Norwegian spent over three years away from the game after his high-profile exit from the Theatre of Dreams.
And now he’s admitted that it was a bizarre coincidence to do with his daughter that gave him the confidence to get behind the wheel once again and give management another crack.
Speaking to Turkish media, he said: “This project seems a little bit like Man United for me.
“We were sixth, then third and second. Step by step. I’ve been following United and it’s difficult when it goes down.
“I had many offers but it had to be the right offer worth me moving away from my perfect life. You need to feel the heartbeat racing again. Do you have the energy? The project feels so right for me.
“Besiktas is not just a football club, it’s a sports club.
“One thing: my daughter was born on March 3, 2003. If we go back in history, March 3, 1903 was the foundation of Besiktas, so I think this is a sign as well.
“She sent me a message and this is the right one.”
Solskjaer's managerial record
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has returned to management after four years out.
But how has the Manchester United leged fared at his previous clubs?
Molde FK (First Spell): 2010 – 2014
Games: 122
Wins: 68
Draws: 24
Losses: 30
Win Percentage: 55.74%
Cardiff City: 2014 – 2014
Games: 30
Wins: 9
Draws: 5
Losses: 16
Win Percentage: 30.00%
Molde FK (Second Spell): 2015 – 2018
Games: 118
Wins: 66
Draws: 19
Losses: 33
Win Percentage: 55.93%
Manchester United: 2018 – 21 November 2021
Games: 168
Wins: 91
Draws: 37
Losses: 40
Win Percentage: 54.17%
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS
Solskjaer replaces Holland legend and ex-Arsenal star Giovanni van Bronckhorst – who was axed last month – in Istanbul.
Iconic super-sub striker Solskjaer helped guide United to a second-place finish in the Premier League and reached a Europa League final during his near-three-year reign at Old Trafford.
And he has promised not to pinch any of United’s players away from Manchester this month when quizzed about rumours linking Casemiro and Marcus Rashford with a move to Turkey.
He said: “I’ve come from Manchester United, so there will be transfer news like this.
“Casemiro and Rashford are very good players, but I haven’t had any contact with them.
“I enjoyed my time at Manchester United. That chapter is closed.”
Solskjaer will take charge of his first game for Besiktas tonight as he faces a Europa League clash against Athletic Bilbao this evening.
What Man Utd said on hiring EACH of their post-Fergie managers
David Moyes
“All the skills needed to build on United’s phenomenal legacy.”
Louis van Gaal
“One of the outstanding managers in the game today.”
Jose Mourinho
“Quite simply the best manager in the game today.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
“A wealth of experience, with a desire to give young players their chance and a deep understanding of the culture of the club.”
Erik ten Hag
“One of the most exciting and successful coaches in Europe.”
Ruben Amorim
“One of the most exciting and highly rated young coaches in European football.”