The modern game of football is increasingly reliant on data analysis, and the practice of rewarding external consultants based on performance – specifically, bonuses tied to goals or positive outcomes from set pieces – has become commonplace in the Premier League by 2026. This trend, focused on maximizing marginal gains, too found its way to Belgium with RSC Anderlecht under the leadership of then-manager Brian Riemer.
Across the English Channel, it’s now standard practice for clubs to employ external consultants who specialize in analyzing and improving set-piece routines. When a goal results from a suggested adjustment, the consultant receives a bonus. This performance-based incentive structure is spreading, even extending to lower divisions in Belgium, where win bonuses are already well-established. Union SG and Cercle Brugge, for example, have previously implemented bonuses for goals scored directly from set pieces, or for preventing goals conceded from corners and free kicks.
Belgian Clubs Incentivize Set-Piece Success
According to reports from Het Laatste Nieuws, players at Union SG and Cercle Brugge received additional bonuses for scoring from set pieces, or even for successfully defending them – preventing goals from corners or free kicks. The motivation behind this approach was to emphasize the importance of set-piece plays, which, by 2026, are frequently decisive in matches within the Jupiler Pro League.
Riemer’s ‘Crazy’ Idea at Anderlecht
Brian Riemer brought a novel idea with him when he took the helm at RSC Anderlecht. Having previously worked at Brentford FC, where data-driven decision-making and meticulous analysis of set-piece scenarios were integral to the club’s philosophy, Riemer sought to implement similar strategies in Belgium. He is currently the manager of the Denmark national team, having been appointed in October 2024, with a contract extending to July 15, 2028.
Riemer, then at Anderlecht, commissioned the creation of specialized wristbands for his players. These bands were designed to display various set-piece variations, serving as a quick reference guide during matches. Whereas innovative, the wristbands were ultimately never used in a competitive game. Riemer managed Anderlecht for 76 matches, guiding the team to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa Conference League in his first six months, despite a disappointing league finish. He laid the foundations for a title challenge the following season, ultimately finishing third in the Jupiler Pro League.
Riemer’s tenure at Anderlecht ended on September 19, 2024, with the club citing insufficient performance as the reason for the separation. Anderlecht expressed gratitude for his commitment over the past year and nine months. David Hubert has since taken over as interim first-team coach, having previously managed the U18 team.
The emphasis on set pieces reflects a broader trend in modern football. As the game becomes increasingly tactical and competitive, teams are constantly searching for ways to gain an edge. Set-piece routines, often overlooked in the past, are now recognized as a crucial component of a successful game plan. The willingness of clubs like Union SG, Cercle Brugge, and Anderlecht to incentivize performance in this area demonstrates the growing importance of data analysis and innovative thinking in the pursuit of victory.
Riemer’s background provides context for his approach. Before taking the Anderlecht job in December 2022, he served as an assistant manager at Brentford under Thomas Frank for nearly four years. Prior to that, he held various coaching roles within the Copenhagen system, including positions with the youth academy and as an assistant to Ståle Solbakken. His coaching license is a UEFA Pro Licence, and his preferred formation is 4-3-3 attacking.
The story of Riemer’s wristbands, while ultimately unused, illustrates a willingness to explore unconventional methods in the pursuit of improvement. It highlights the growing influence of data and analytics in football, and the increasing importance of set-piece plays in determining match outcomes. The fact that the Denmark national team manager once explored such a tactic speaks to a broader shift in the sport, where even seemingly small details can be scrutinized and optimized in the quest for competitive advantage.
As the Jupiler Pro League continues to evolve, the emphasis on set-piece routines is likely to grow. Clubs will continue to seek innovative ways to improve their performance in these crucial moments, and the example of Brian Riemer’s time at Anderlecht serves as a reminder that even “crazy” ideas can be worth exploring in the pursuit of success.
Denmark’s next scheduled match is yet to be confirmed, but Riemer will be looking to implement his data-driven approach on the international stage. Fans can follow updates on the Danish Football Association’s official website for the latest news and schedule information.
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