Football Season Guide

2022/23 looked to have been a calmer, more stable one for Standard Liege after a couple of difficult campaigns as they made the European playoffs. However, it all went downhill in the playoffs with manager Ronny Deila leaving for Club Brugge and performances deteriorating dramatically. The off season has seen Carl Hoefkens appointed the new Head Coach. He started off last season at Club Brugge and did well, especially in Europe, but was sacked after a dip in form. He will have a point to prove and has brought in a heavyweight player as his number two, former Barcelona and Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure. There have been some significant player departures with captain Dussenne and dependable midfielder Cimirot leaving. Key attacking midfielder Zinckernagel, the club’s top scorer last season with eight league goals, and valuable central midfielder Alzate have also gone after their loan deals expired. Recruitment so far looks smart, Vanheusden is a former Standard Liege youth prospect and fan favourite, Kawabe has the attributes to fill the void left by Zinckernagel. Standard Liege have the core of a strong side with goalkeeper Bodart, defenders Laifis and Fossey, midfielder Donnum and forward Ohio. However, overall the squad is lacking in strength in depth. Hoefkens wants more signings and Sporting Director Fergal Harkin has said recently that further new recruits are coming.