Beşiktaş faces midfield crisis due to injuries

Beşiktaş is dealing with significant midfield shortages ahead of their Trendyol Süper Lig match against Başakşehir. The team has been hit by consecutive injuries to key players Orkun Kökçü, who is sidelined with a toe injury, and Fabio Miretti, who faces a 1.5-month absence due to a shoulder injury.

To address these absences, manager Vincenzo Italiano is restructuring the midfield. The tactical plan involves utilizing Salih Özcan and Wilfried Ndidi to handle defensive duties and balance in the center, while Junior Olaitan is expected to take on the role of the number 10 playmaker.

Olaitan, a 24-year-old Beninese midfielder, has become a vital asset for the club. He has recorded five goals and one assist in nine UEFA Europa League appearances, along with two assists in the Süper Lig. His recent performance has reportedly drawn interest from clubs in the Premier League and Bundesliga.