Ndidi reveals why he joined Besiktas amid interest from Manchester United

Super Eagles midfield dynamo Wilfred Ndidi recently provided insight into his decision to sign for Besiktas amid interest from top clubs in the Premier League and even the Saudi Pro League.

Ndidi signed for the Black Eagles in the summer, when the Super Lig giants capitalised on his paltry €9 million release clause triggerable after Leicester City were relegated from the Premier League.

Besiktas were only amongst a host of clubs aware of the clause, but they managed to beat other suitors to his signature. In a recent interview with Punch, the 29-year-old explained why he decided to switch to the 16-time Turkish Super Lig winners. 

Addressing his decision to join Besiktas, the former Genk defensive midfielder explained that the Black Eagles presented a very appealing project. Like his Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen, he added that he was also drawn to the fan culture in Turkey.

“For me, it was about the project, the culture, and the feeling. Beşiktaş showed real belief in me and a clear plan for how I could help the team,” he said in the interview.

“When you talk with people who value you and share your ambitions, it’s powerful. And of course, the supporters—Beşiktaş fans are special. The energy inside Vodafone Park is something every player wants to experience regularly.”

Meanwhile, Manchester United were one such team vying for Ndidi’s signature, and they considered the Nigerian in the summer and winter; however, a move never materialised.