40,000 Fans Sing as Besiktas Honours Vincenzo Italiano
Forty thousand supporters chanted Vincenzo Italiano’s name from the stands at Besiktas Park as the Turkish side secured a 4-1 victory over Olympique de Marseille on September 17, 2026. The emphatic result marked a triumphant UEFA Europa League debut for the head coach, who has now registered 10 wins from his opening 12 matches since arriving in Istanbul.
The continental opener carried high expectations under the lights at Besiktas Park, where the home supporters created an intense atmosphere that propelled the squad forward from the opening whistle. As the 48-year-old manager patrolled the technical area, his tactical setup immediately unsettled the visitors’ defensive lines.
Besiktas
clubVincenzo Italiano Shapes a Rapid Tactical Transition in Istanbul
Arriving at the club over the summer following a productive spell with Bologna, Italiano has quickly imprinted a proactive playing style on his new squad. His methods have translated into immediate results, establishing a swift rhythm that has bridged Italian domestic experience with European competition.
Stadium Speakers Play Toto Cutugno Hit in Unique Full-Time Tribute
Following the final whistle, the club acknowledged the manager’s instant impact by broadcasting Toto Cutugno’s iconic track ‘L’Italiano’ over the stadium public address system. The lighthearted musical gesture completed an evening that saw the home crowd fully embrace the technical staff’s early accomplishments.
Marseille
clubBefore taking the helm in Turkey, Italiano spent two seasons with Bologna, a tenure highlighted by guiding the Rossoblu to their first Coppa Italia title in 51 years during the 2024-25 campaign. His managerial background also includes prior spells at Trapani, Spezia, and Fiorentina.
Besiktas returns to domestic fixtures with momentum from their opening European outing, holding a record of 10 wins from 12 matches under the Italian coach.