Vincenzo Italiano Details Besiktas Choice and Turkish Football Atmosphere
Former Bologna and Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Italiano described the atmosphere at Besiktas as extraordinary, comparing the passion in Turkish stadiums to Italian football during the 1980s and 1990s. In an interview with Corriere dello Sport, Italiano noted that even newly promoted sides like Amed draw crowds of forty thousand supporters, creating an intense environment that surprised him following his appointment.
Rebuilding the Besiktas Squad and Integrating Dusan Vlahovic
Italiano explained that the Besiktas squad underwent a significant youth-focused rebuild during pre-season, compounded by late arrivals following the World Cup. Despite early concerns ahead of the Europa League preliminaries against Midtjylland, the team secured victories and later welcomed striker Dusan Vlahovic, who joined after leaving Juventus. Vlahovic has scored five goals in four league matches under Italiano, who previously coached the forward at Fiorentina.
Tactical Flexibility and Squad Management in Turkey
Besiktas has utilized tactical variations under Italiano, employing players like Turkish international Salih Ozcan—acquired from Borussia Dortmund—to alternate between a traditional 4-3-3 setup and a double pivot alongside young midfielder Olaitan from Benin. The club also integrated Fabio Miretti following his recovery from injury, fulfilling the requirement to include players with Serie A experience.
Reflecting on Italian Offers and Future Objectives
Before taking the Besiktas position, Italiano held discussions with European clubs, including Benfica, and weighed options in Serie A before committing to the Turkish project. The club’s primary objectives for the season included reaching the Europa League group stage—a goal already achieved—maintaining a position near the top of the league table, and challenging Galatasaray’s dominance in domestic competition.
Did you know? Vincenzo Italiano previously won a Coppa Italia title with Bologna before making the move to manage Besiktas in the Turkish Süper Lig.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which team does Vincenzo Italiano currently manage?
Vincenzo Italiano is the head coach of Turkish Süper Lig club Besiktas.
How many goals has Dusan Vlahovic scored under Italiano at Besiktas?
Dusan Vlahovic has scored 5 goals in 4 league appearances for Besiktas.
What European competition did Besiktas qualify for under Italiano?
Besiktas successfully advanced to the group stage of the UEFA Europa League.
Which former Juventus midfielder joined Besiktas recently?
Fabio Miretti joined Besiktas to bolster the team’s midfield options.
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