A new season brings renewed hope for Beşiktaş, who launch their 2026-27 campaign Thursday with a high-stakes UEFA Europa League second qualifying round clash against Denmark's FC Midtjylland, as Vincenzo Italiano takes charge of his first competitive match while the club continues pursuing a blockbuster move for Mohamed Salah.
The first leg at Tüpraş Stadium marks the beginning of Beşiktaş's bid to return to the European stage after several disappointing seasons.
The winner of the two-legged tie will move one step closer to the Europa League league phase, with three qualifying rounds separating both clubs from the main competition.
The match also represents a fresh start for a Beşiktaş side desperate to restore its status after finishing a distant fourth in the Turkish Süper Lig last season.
Once again overshadowed by fierce rivals Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe in the domestic title race, the Black Eagles also endured another disappointing European campaign.
