Midtjylland count on Franculino revival ahead of Hostile Besiktas Europa League test

FC Midtjylland are preparing for one of their toughest challenges of the season as they begin their UEFA Europa League campaign away against Turkish giants Besiktas at the intimidating Tüpras Stadyumu on Thursday night.

The Danish side will be hoping Franculino can rediscover the form that made him one of the most sought-after young strikers in European football and a major transfer target for clubs across the continent.

The Guinea-Bissau international suffered a knee and muscle injury in December 2025, and although he returned four months later, he struggled to immediately regain the explosive form that had seen him become the leading goalscorer in the Danish Superliga.

Before his injury setback, Franculino had established himself as one of the most exciting attacking talents in Europe, attracting interest from several clubs, including teams from the Premier League.

Franculino working to regain his best form

Determined to return at full strength, Franculino began his pre-season preparations 10 days earlier than the rest of the squad, completing double training sessions under the guidance of FC Midtjylland’s performance department.

His efforts have already shown signs of progress, with the striker scoring during friendly victories against Cardiff City and OB, raising hopes that he has recovered his pace, sharpness and finishing ability.

Midtjylland will need the forward at his best as they prepare for a demanding European campaign, especially after losing attacking options during the summer transfer window.

The club sold influential winger Aral Simsir to Turkish side Trabzonspor, while striker Junior Brumado has suffered a serious knee injury that is expected to keep him sidelined until the end of the year.

Midtjylland face intimidating Istanbul atmosphere

The Danish champions finished second in the Danish Superliga last season but lifted silverware by defeating FC Copenhagen in the Danish Cup final.

During the summer, they strengthened their squad with the signing of Danish international defender Rasmus Nissen Kristensen from Eintracht Frankfurt, adding valuable European experience ahead of their continental campaign.

That experience could prove crucial at the Tüpras Stadyumu, a stadium located on the banks of the Bosphorus and famous for producing one of the loudest atmospheres in world football.

For Besiktas, the match will mark the first competitive fixture under new head coach Vincenzo Italiano, with the Turkish club under pressure to deliver immediate results.

The club has also been linked with a sensational move for Mohamed Salah, although any potential deal remains uncertain.

Pressure mounting on Besiktas

Besiktas have failed to reach the group stage or league phase of a UEFA competition since 2023, increasing expectations on Italiano to restore one of Turkey’s biggest clubs to European prominence.

The Istanbul side have strengthened their squad ahead of the new season, bringing in Bayern Munich goalkeeper Alexander Nübel and Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard.

However, Trossard will miss the opening match after receiving additional time off following Belgium’s involvement at the World Cup.

Pre-season results have provided limited encouragement, with Besiktas winning only two of their five friendly matches while conceding seven goals.

Their defensive problems have also been worsened by the suspension of Felix Uduokhai, potentially giving Franculino a valuable opportunity to make an immediate impact in Europe.

With Besiktas vulnerable at the back and Midtjylland searching for attacking inspiration, the Danish striker could be the key figure in Thursday night’s showdown.

Kick-off: 20:00 CET.