Carl Hoefkens on Vanaken situation: ‘I understand he’s thinking about the Premier League’

It symbolizes continuity, dominance and stability. For seven seasons, Hans Vanaken has animated the game of FC Bruges, with unfailing loyalty. But at 29, after five Belgian champion titles and two Golden Boots, the Red Devil would like to try the adventure in the Premier League. West Ham had already made an offer of fifteen million in the past and the Hammers returned to the charge.

The Flandrian management is well aware of the wishes of its midfielder to integrate one of the best championships in the world. But she also knows very well that she can’t live without it. This is what prompted her to decline the offer of the Londoners. “Hans is an incredible player who has already done a lot for Bruges “responded Carl Hoefkens at a press conference. “He also has a big influence on the way we play. As long as he is there, I will work with him. He will also be included in the squad for this Sunday’s game against Kortrijk.”

The coach’s statements are much less firm than the position of his management, apparently determined to keep Vanaken “at all costs”. She will offer a new contract, as had already been the case in 2020. In order to digest the frustration more easily. Unless she gives in. “Of course, I understand that Hans is considering a move to the Premier League. It’s completely normal,” continued the Bruges T1. “As as a coach, I want him to stay, but it makes sense for a player to consider such an offer. I told him that I would like to continue working with him. He will take this into account when making his choice. But that’s up to him…with management, of course.”

Will Carl Hoefkens manage to convince his number 20? “Hans knows how much respect I have for him, both as a player and as a person. The club have clearly said no at the moment and Hans has been training incredibly well this week. He is fully involved. in the preparation for this Sunday’s game against Kortrijk.”

An attitude that contrasts with that of Charles De Ketelaere and Noa Lang. But the situations are also very different. “Vanaken is already much further along in his career, he has already had several moments like this. Lang and Charles are still young and experienced these situations for the first time.” De Ketelaere had asked not to play against Genk, while the Dutchman preferred not to start against Zulte Waregem and then OHL. Which did not prevent him from getting into the game, badly on the third day, very well last Sunday.

Little discomfort therefore at FC Bruges. The management would necessarily like to thank Hans Vanaken for all the services rendered and would even take the opportunity to make a superb capital gain (he had been bought for 4 million) for a player close to 30 years old. But three weeks before the end of the transfer window, she would shoot herself in the foot… especially since she does not “need” this money.