Philip Zinckernagel, a midfielder now plying his trade in Major League Soccer wiht Chicago Fire, reflects on his tenure in Belgium with a mix of fondness and frustration. His time split between Standard Liège and Club Brugge, where he ultimately lifted a championship trophy, was significantly shaped by the presence and eventual departure of his compatriot, manager Ronny Deila.
Zinckernagel shared his sentiments in an interview, stating, “I had really good moments. At Standard I felt super good, we had built somthing special with Ronny Deila before he left for Bruges. Regrettably, things became more arduous later.” This sentiment highlights the strong bond he felt with Deila and the positive atmosphere cultivated during their initial period together.
His move to Club Brugge began with promise, but the trajectory shifted. “The first seven months were good, but everything changes quickly,” zinckernagel explained. “I was injured and Ronny was fired. The plans for me changed and promises that had been made to Ronny were not kept.” This series of events, including his own physical setback and the managerial change, disrupted his integration and the club’s strategic direction.
Despite the challenges, Zinckernagel expressed an overall positive view of his Pro League experience, even hinting at a potential return after his MLS stint. “It was difficult, but in general I really enjoyed my time in the Pro League, I would like to return after the MLS.”
While he achieved championship glory with Club Brugge, Zinckernagel admits to a deeper emotional connection with Standard Liège. “Both seasons were great, but in Liège I had that special connection with the club and the fantastic fans.It is indeed not an insult to Bruges,but yes,I had that feeling a little more at Standard.” This suggests that the fan engagement and club culture at Standard resonated more profoundly with him.
The departure of Ronny Deila from Standard to club Brugge marked a important turning point for Zinckernagel.He elaborated, “I had an injury that lasted longer to heal and the staff and the plans changed. It was difficult,but I felt that the club wanted to go a different direction. If Ronny had not left Standard, I might have stayed there too.” this underscores the pivotal role Deila played in his career decisions and his overall satisfaction at a club.
Zinckernagel also voiced his disagreement with the decision to dismiss Deila from Club Brugge. He believes the team could have achieved success under Deila’s continued leadership. “it was difficult for him. I don’t think it was the right decision, but in the end we became champions. I am sure that we could have won the title with Ronny. We were not bad, our European course proved that.” this suggests a belief that the team’s potential was not fully realized due to the managerial change.
Addressing recent comments from Club Brugge chairman Bart verhaeghe about the absence of “big egos,” Zinckernagel offered a nuanced perspective on Deila. “ronny never had a big ego, that is the last thing I would say about him. He just has a strong personality, totally different.” He further commented on the club’s perceived handling of the situation: “With his resignation it seemed as if the club had had enough of the Scandinavians, as if all the problems were charged to us. That was strange.” This implies a feeling of being unfairly scapegoated and a mischaracterization of Deila’s leadership style.
