Nigeria Players Abroad
Demir Ege Tıknaz backs Ndidi to lay claim to starting berth amidst fierce competition
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Demir Ege Tıknaz, the central defender for Beşiktaş, has expressed confidence that Wilfred Ndidi, the club’s summer signing from Leicester City, will earn a starting spot despite the fierce competition for places in the squad.
Ndidi, who completed a move to the Turkish powerhouse for a reported fee of €8 million, has signed a three-year contract with an option for an additional year, securing his services until at least 2028.
The Nigerian international is eager to make an immediate impact following a successful tenure at Leicester City, where he was an instrumental part of their midfield, contributing to the club’s historic FA Cup and Community Shield victories.
Speaking ahead of Beşiktaş’ UEFA Conference League clash against St. Patrick, Tıknaz highlighted the fierce competition within the squad but stressed that Ndidi’s quality will help him stake his claim for a starting spot.
“Ndidi is a very good player. There will be competition within the team, which will benefit the team,” said Tıknaz. “We have new players coming in. We’ll get used to each other as we play. Beşiktaş is a big club. There will be competition within the team, which will elevate the team to the next level.”
Tıknaz’s sentiments were echoed by Beşiktaş head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who also praised Ndidi’s potential to strengthen the team. The Norwegian coach admitted that the club’s new arrivals, including Ndidi, would provide the edge they need to compete for both domestic and European titles this season.
Despite the intense competition in the heart of Beşiktaş’ midfield, Ndidi’s pedigree at the highest level of English football gives him a strong case to break into the starting lineup.
His arrival marks a significant upgrade for the Turkish giants, with the 26-year-old bringing a wealth of experience from his Premier League years.
Ndidi’s challenge now will be to establish himself as a central figure in Beşiktaş’ midfield, alongside some of the other high-caliber signings in the squad.
With his ball-winning ability and composure on the ball, he is expected to provide much-needed stability and defensive cover in the middle of the park, complementing the attacking flair around him.
Having played in over 150 Premier League games and won multiple domestic honors with Leicester, Ndidi will be keen to replicate that success with Beşiktaş and help the club achieve its goals in both Turkish and European competitions.
As the season progresses, Ndidi will be hoping to earn a starting role and contribute to Beşiktaş’ quest for silverware, particularly after their strong showing in the UEFA Conference League and the Turkish Süper Lig.
