Théo Leoni left RSC Anderlecht for Stade de Reims after contract negotiations stalled over wages and unfulfilled promises from previous leadership, later returning to find a transformed Lotto Park. DHnet reported that the midfielder evaluated his exit after playing his entire senior career under youth contract terms while watching incoming transfers command significantly higher salaries.
Théo Leoni Assesses the New RSC Anderlecht Squad
Walking into Lotto Park for a recent fixture, Leoni observed a stark contrast from the team he left behind. The stadium echoed with empty seats, and familiar faces were few. Colin Coosemans, Marco Kana, and Mario Stroeykens remained from his era, while a revamped squad under new management claimed a 3-0 victory.
They have 30 to 35 high-level players, our core is smaller,
Leoni told DHnet, assessing the current Anderlecht roster against his squad at Reims. He noted that the team possessed a clear tactical identity under their coach, describing the current iteration as stronger than the side he departed in 2025.
Contract Deadlock and Wage Realities Behind the Exit
The departure followed months of financial friction with club leadership. Although sporting director Olivier Renard tabled a contract proposal, Leoni’s representatives advised against signing it, pointing to players in the lower half of the league earning higher wages despite Leoni making 80 senior appearances, challenging for the league title, and featuring in the Europa League.
Leoni disclosed that he played throughout his professional breakthrough on a youth contract originally designed for U23 competition. Financial bonuses tied to first-team appearances tapered off over time, resulting in a lower salary during his second senior season than his first. I understand that a player like Kasper Dolberg earns much more than me, but other players of the same level? No, sorry,
Leoni said, adding that rising living costs and fuel prices near €2.50 per liter influenced his decision to secure his financial future abroad rather than risk remaining unsigned.
Blocked Transfer to Union Saint-Gilloise and the Move to Stade de Reims
Domestic options emerged during the transfer window, most notably from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Leoni confirmed that Union made a concrete approach on the final day of the transfer window, but Anderlecht resisted a cross-town switch. Club officials warned that a move to their rivals would alienate supporters, asking him if he intended to damage his legacy as a homegrown player.
Conversely, when French club Stade de Reims entered the race, Anderlecht urged an immediate departure ahead of the 20:00 deadline. Rejecting Union’s Champions League project to preserve his standing with Anderlecht supporters, Leoni accepted Reims’ offer. He noted that the Ligue 2 side offered professional amenities including private charter flights for trips exceeding three hours.
Reflecting on Past Tenures Under Vincent Kompany and Besnik Hasi
Leoni accepted the technical decisions, noting that even elite managers like José Mourinho overlooked players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Mohamed Salah, and Romelu Lukaku during their developmental years.
His relationship with Besnik Hasi proved more strained.
Future Ambitions and Life in French Football
Yet, the midfielder admits that a future return to Lotto Park remains a possibility.
Worth a look
