KRC Genk has secured only nine points from its opening seven matches of the new Belgian Pro League season, leaving the club ten points behind league leaders Union SG.
Van Crombrugge Questions Roster Metier and Defensive Stability
Speaking on the podcast 90MINUTES, Van Crombrugge addressed the structural shortcomings of the Genk squad. “There is very little metier in Genk’s starting eleven,” Van Crombrugge stated. “It is a very young core. That primarily causes problems in the defensive compartment.”
The 33-year-old goalkeeper noted that while the club executed positive transfers in the offensive sector, the team lacks defensive reliability. “Genk concedes far too many goals,” Van Crombrugge said, pointing to a lack of stability behind the forward line.
Comparing Genk with Club Brugge and KAA Gent
Van Crombrugge contrasted Genk’s current struggles with the squad construction of rival Belgian clubs. He pointed out that while Club Brugge also relies on a young core, they maintain veteran presence across every line through players such as Hans Vanaken and Brandon Mechele. The goalkeeper also highlighted league leaders KAA Gent, attributing their position to the veteran presence and competitive edge provided by Christian Burgess.
The criticism echoes earlier remarks from pundit Marc Degryse, who described the Genk squad’s attitude as too complacent given the team’s slow start to the campaign.
Contract Status and Current Standing at Genk
Despite remaining under contract with KRC Genk until the end of the season, Van Crombrugge currently trains away from the primary first-team setup on a secondary training pitch in Limburg, having previously played for KAS Eupen and RSC Anderlecht.
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