Italiano Will Not Rush Orkun Kökçü's Return

Injuries in midfield are drawing attention at Beşiktaş, which is entering a critical period in both the Süper Lig and Europe. At the center of this situation is captain Orkun Kökçü.

The international midfielder was injured in the UEFA Europa League match against Hoffenheim. Kökçü, who did not play in the Trabzonspor and Crystal Palace matches, was reported to want to return to the pitch in Sunday's away game at Kasımpaşa.

However, head coach Vincenzo Italiano and the medical staff do not want to take any risks with the player's return. Given the possibility of the injury flaring up again, it was stated that the 25-year-old will not be used until he is completely fit. The priority of the coaching staff is to bring the captain back to the team smoothly in the long term.

Another midfield concern at Beşiktaş is Fabio Miretti. The player, who injured his right shoulder in the Crystal Palace match, is expected to be out for about 1.5 months.

The simultaneous absence of two important players makes midfield rotation more difficult. The club is expected to closely monitor the fitness of its players during this period.