Super Eagles: Ndidi’s surprise role in Besiktas opener — three things it could mean

Super Eagles star Wilfried Ndidi was in action for Besiktas in their 1-0 win over Eyupspor in their 2026-27 Turkish Super Lig opener on Sunday, Afrik-Foot reports.

Ndidi’s future has been uncertain throughout the summer, with reports linking him with a move away from Besiktas after just one season at the club. Premier League heavyweights Manchester United, as well as Saudi Pro League sides Al Ittihad and Al Diriyah have all been linked with a move for the midfielder.

The Super Eagles star was an important player for Besiktas last season, making 31 appearances across all competitions. He has also made it clear that he wants to remain at the club and is not pursuing an exit this summer.

However, the 29-year-old started the new league campaign in an unusual way, as he had to wait until the 89th minute before being introduced as a late replacement for Junior Olaitan.

The former Leicester City midfielder had very little time to influence the game, although he helped Besiktas see out the victory after Vaclav Cerny’s first-half strike had given them all three points.

His late introduction has since raised questions about his role at Besiktas and whether his future at the club remains uncertain.

Super Eagles: What Ndidi’s role against Eyupspor could mean

While Ndidi was a key player for Besiktas last season, his limited role in their opening league game has naturally led to speculation.

One possibility is that Besiktas are preparing to move on from Ndidi before the end of the summer transfer window.

Bringing him on in the 89th minute could be seen as a sign that the club are already preparing for life without the midfielder, especially with reports that they are open to selling him if their valuation is met by an interested club.

If Besiktas are expecting an offer for Ndidi in the coming weeks, his reduced role could be part of that wider situation.

Another possibility is that head coach Vincenzo Italiano is still trying to find the right balance in his team.

Italiano only took charge of Besiktas this summer and is still working out his preferred system and the players who best fit into it.

Trendyol Süper Lig'de sezona galibiyetle başlıyoruz. 💪

BJK 1-0 EYP pic.twitter.com/KkxT6036Yu

— Beşiktaş JK (@Besiktas) August 16, 2026

Ndidi brings plenty of experience and leadership to the squad, and his late introduction could simply be down to the coach still assessing his options rather than an indication that the midfielder has fallen down the pecking order.

It is also possible that Italiano sees Ndidi playing an important role as the season progresses, especially because of his experience and ability to provide defensive stability in midfield.

Ndidi’s fitness could be another major factor behind his limited involvement.

The Super Eagles captain missed Besiktas’ first two Europa League qualifying matches through injury and only returned in their third-round victory over Hradec Kralove, where he was introduced as a late substitute.

His late appearance against Eyupspor could also be part of a gradual return to full fitness. Rather than immediately throwing him into a full 90-minute game, Italiano may be managing his minutes as he continues to regain his sharpness.

That would also explain why Ndidi has been given limited playing time in recent matches despite being an important player for the club last season.

The next few games should provide a clearer picture of whether Ndidi remains an important part of Italiano’s plans or whether Besiktas are gradually preparing for his departure.

Besiktas will return to action on Thursday when they face Lithuanian side Kauno Zalgiris in the first leg of their Europa League playoff round.