Wout Faes: The Unconventional Path of Belgium’s Defensive Stalwart

In the high-gloss, hyper-curated world of modern professional football, where athletes often follow a predictable blueprint of luxury and public branding, Wout Faes is an outlier. The Belgian centre-back, currently plying his trade in Ligue 1 with Monaco on loan from Leicester City, has recently sparked conversation not just for his defensive positioning, but for his perspective on life away from the pitch.

Speaking with Walfoot.be, Faes acknowledged that his approach to his personal life deviates from the norm. “Je suis peut-être bizarre” (I might be weird), Faes remarked, opening up about a “choice of life” that he describes as uncommon in today’s society. While the specific details of his private routine remain a personal matter, the admission highlights a mental detachment from the typical celebrity trappings that often accompany elite sports.

For a player who has navigated the pressures of the Belgium national team and the physical demands of the English Championship, this internal grounding may be a key component of his resilience. Faes has spent the better part of a decade proving himself across three different countries, transforming from a promising academy product into a reliable international defender.

The Long Road: From Anderlecht to the Premier League

Faes’ career trajectory was not a linear ascent. Born on April 3, 1998, in Mol, Belgium, he was developed within the prestigious Sporting d’Anderlecht academy. His early potential was evident; by 2016, he helped the U19 squad reach the semi-finals of the Youth League. However, the transition to the senior squad at Anderlecht proved difficult.

Rather than stagnating, Faes embraced a nomadic period of growth. Between 2017 and 2018, he was sent on loan to the Eredivisie, spending time with both Heerenveen and Excelsior. These stints in the Netherlands served as a vital introduction to senior football, providing the minutes and tactical experience that were unavailable to him in Brussels.

The true breakthrough arrived at Oostende. It was here that Faes evolved from a prospect into a “solid starter,” showcasing the physical presence and reading of the game that would eventually attract scouts from the larger European leagues. His performances in Belgium caught the eye of Stade de Reims, who signed him in January 2020. Even then, the path remained disciplined; he returned to Oostende on loan for the remainder of that season to ensure his development continued uninterrupted.

This patience paid off in 2022 when he secured a move to Leicester City. His time in England saw him establish himself as a key figure in the Foxes’ defensive line, making 123 appearances and scoring five goals. His ability to handle the intensity of the English game prepared him for the highest levels of international competition.

International Ascent and the Belgian ‘Golden’ Standard

Faes’ rise through the Belgian national team ranks was a masterclass in steady progression. He represented the “Red Devils” at every youth level, from the U15s (where he scored one of his five caps) through to the U21s, often serving as captain. This leadership experience provided a foundation for his senior debut in 2022.

Since breaking into the senior squad, Faes has become a trusted component of Belgium’s defensive rotations. He was named to the squads for both the 2022 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2024. During the latter, his performance against Romania drew significant attention from the Belgian media, cementing his reputation as a player capable of performing under the scrutiny of a major tournament.

Standing at 1.87m (6 ft 2 in), Faes provides the aerial dominance and structural discipline required for the modern centre-back role. His international career, which now spans 28 caps, reflects a player who has earned his spot through consistency rather than overnight stardom.

The Monaco Chapter: A Modern Challenge

As of early 2026, Faes has entered a new phase of his career. Currently on loan at Monaco, the 28-year-aged is adapting to the tactical nuances of Ligue 1. The move to the Principality allows him to test his skills in one of Europe’s most technical leagues while remaining under the ownership of Leicester City.

For global followers of the sport, Faes represents a refreshing archetype: the professional who views football as a vocation rather than a vehicle for fame. Whether This proves his willingness to seize multiple loans early in his career or his admission of having an “uncommon” lifestyle, he operates on a frequency different from many of his peers.

As Monaco pushes for success in Ligue 1, Faes’ ability to maintain his mental equilibrium—his “bizarre” or uncommon approach to life—may be exactly what allows him to thrive in the high-pressure environment of elite European football.

The next checkpoint for Faes will be his continued integration into the Monaco starting XI and his role in the upcoming Belgian national team call-ups. Fans can follow his progress via official club channels and the Belgian FA.

Do you think a “non-traditional” lifestyle helps professional athletes maintain better focus on the pitch? Let us know in the comments.