OTHER After a disappointing season, RSC Anderlecht is looking to make progress again, though the club realizes that a return to the very top of Belgian soccer won't happen overnight. The team lost the cup final to Union once again, and the Purple & Whites also fell far short of expectations in the Champions' Playoffs. A fourth-place finish and a significant gap behind Club Brugge, Union, and even STVV made it clear that there is still a lot of work to be done.
To narrow that gap, Anderlecht has implemented sweeping changes in recent months. Not only did several experienced players depart—including Thorgan Hazard—but the structure behind the scenes was also overhauled. Jérémy Taravel transitioned to the role of assistant coach alongside new head coach Vitor Bruno. Sporting director Antoine Sibierski and CEO Kenneth Bornauw are tasked with helping shape the club's new direction.
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Continue reading Under the leadership of chairman Michael Verschueren, Anderlecht aims to gradually reestablish itself as a fixture among Belgium's elite. Internally, there is an understanding that patience is necessary. A spot in the top four is currently considered a realistic goal, while any title race will depend on the team's development. The initial signs under Vitor Bruno are already positive, and the players seem to be quickly embracing his playing philosophy.
The new signings also made a promising impression in the European qualifying rounds. Defenders Giulian Biancone and Léo Pétrot bring physical presence, simplicity, and tenacity to the back line—qualities that the coaching staff values highly. In midfield, all eyes are on Lukas Ambros' continued development, while Finnish player Oliver Antman is expected to provide extra speed and creativity on the wing.
However, Nathan De Cat's departure leaves a significant void. Despite his young age, he emerged as a key figure in midfield last season thanks to his game intelligence, passing, and leadership. Thorgan Hazard's departure is also a major loss, as he made a significant contribution to the attack with fifteen goals and ten assists.
At the same time, Anderlecht remains fully committed to the Neerpede youth academy. Vitor Bruno has already given opportunities to Jayden Onia Seke, Joshua Nga Kana, and Noah Kalonji in European matches. Onia Seke and Nga Kana, in particular, started right from the opening whistle and made a solid impression.
In addition, there are high expectations for 16-year-old winger Noa Ojea. The talented left-footed winger is highly regarded within the club and could make his first appearance with the first team as early as this season.
Despite the talent on hand, the squad still has room for improvement in several positions. In goal, the situation seems clear, with Colin Coosemans as the first choice and Justin Heekeren as a reliable backup. In defense, additional quality could be added both in the center and at the fullback positions, while the club is also looking for more creativity in midfield.
Anderlecht is particularly looking to strengthen its attack. CEO Kenneth Bornauw has previously indicated that more quality is needed up front. If an attractive offer comes in, players such as Adriano Bertaccini and Tristan Degreef could be allowed to leave. Following the departure of Luis Vazquez, the club currently has only Dynalo Sikan and Mihajlo Cvetkovic as center forwards, which is considered too limited a roster for a team with top-tier ambitions.
Transfers in: Lukas Ambros (Górnik Zabrze), Léo Pétrot (Elche), Giulian Biancone (Olympiakos), and Oliver Antman (Rangers).
Outgoing transfers: Nathan De Cat (Hoffenheim), Keisuke Goto (Freiburg), Thorgan Hazard (Lens), Luis Vazquez (Birmingham City), Ibrahim Kanaté (Kaiserslautern, on loan), Anas Tajaouart (La Louvière, on loan), Yari Verschaeren, Mats Rits, and Joachim Imbrechts.
