Besiktas have won their first match under former Manchester United striker and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Turkish club earned an emphatic 4-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League on Wednesday night. Besiktas now sit 18th in the League Phase table, which would earn them a playoff tie as it stands.

Solskjaer was confirmed as Besiktas' new manager on January 18 in his first role in management since being sacked by United in November 2021. The Norwegian guided United to successive top three finishes in the Premier League, but the Reds took just four points from their final 21 available under him.

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And now the 51-year-old has returned to management in Turkey with Besiktas languishing sixth in the Turkish Superlig. Solskjaer has got off to the perfect start in Europe after receiving a warm welcome in Istanbul.

“There was an incredible atmosphere at the stadium today and I liked it," he said via the club's official website.

"I've been with the team only for a few days. I told my players what kind of team I wanted to see on the pitch. We had to fight, play very fast and create chances against one of the top teams in Europe.

"Teamwork would be our main strength. It was a valuable win because it kept our qualification hopes alive. We want to continue our campaign by getting at least one point in the Netherlands.

"Everyone in the team needs each other. I told my players about the importance of playing collectively. Everyone also must run and fight. Today, we saw a fighting team out there. Our fans also enjoyed the game. The important thing is to be able to continue like this."