Besnik Hasi has opened up about his departure from RSC Anderlecht, criticizing the club leadership’s vision and transfer policy while warning that the traditional identity of the Belgian powerhouse is fading. In an interview published on September 26, 2026, by Het Nieuwsblad through journalist Koen Van Uytvange, the current Amedspor coach reflected on his time in Brussels, detailing how European elimination last season signaled the beginning of the end for his tenure.
Departure and Missed Targets at Anderlecht
Hasi pointed to the team’s European exit during the previous campaign as a crucial turning point that triggered his eventual dismissal. According to the Albanian coach, club officials had already made up their minds regarding his future following a defeat against Sporting Charleroi. Questioning the timing of his removal, Hasi argued that allowing him to finish the campaign would not have worsened the team’s standing, noting that a cup final and a third- or fourth-place finish remained entirely achievable.
Transfer Policy Friction and Failed Targets
The discussion shed light on significant friction behind the scenes regarding roster construction. Hasi stated that while he was permitted to help define the tactical profiles needed for the squad, he was frequently bypassed when it came to selecting individual players. To illustrate his point, he remarked that acquisitions like Ilic and Özkan would never have arrived under his preferred blueprint. During his tenure, Hasi also opposed the acquisition of aanvaller Danylo Sikan because he deemed the forward insufficiently match-fit, and he sought to block the sale of winger Nilson Angulo.
Despite those disagreements, Hasi emphasized the importance of developing youth talent, pointing to the key roles played by Angulo and Nathan De Cat under his direct supervision. He maintained that young prospects require both genuine opportunities and structured development to succeed.
Attempted Moves and Neerpede Concerns
Following his transition to Turkish side Amedspor, where he is currently engaged in a long-term project, Hasi attempted to bring familiar figures with him. He tried to convince goalkeeper Colin Coosemans to make the move to Turkey, praising the veteran shot-stopper’s tactical suitability and locker-room leadership. Coosemans ultimately chose to extend his contract in Brussels instead.
Beyond roster decisions, Hasi expressed deep concern over operational changes at the Neerpede academy and training complex. He argued that too many individuals now surround the first team, contrasting the current structure with a time when internal communication lines were much shorter. “The Anderlecht culture is disappearing,” Hasi stated, adding that the senior squad needs greater isolation and clearly defined responsibilities moving forward.
Looking to the Future
Despite his grievances with the club administration and the lack of a clear sporting line during his final months, Hasi expressed enduring confidence in the institution’s resilience. He concluded that Anderlecht will eventually reclaim its position at the summit of Belgian football, stating that the club will return to the top sooner or later.
Keep reading
