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KRC Genk introduces new coach Jess Thorup, hoping for a longer stay

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • KRC Genk has appointed Jess Thorup, a Danish coach, as their new head coach following the unexpected departure of Nicky Hayen.
  • Thorup previously coached Genk in 2020 but left after five matches for a better offer, a decision that was met with some controversy.
  • The club's technical director expressed confidence in Thorup's experience and knowledge of the Belgian league, hoping he will stay longer this time.

KRC Genk has officially introduced Jess Thorup as their new head coach, filling the vacancy left by Nicky Hayen's sudden departure just before the league season begins. The Danish coach returns to the club where he previously had a brief but impactful stint in 2020.

That the club had experience with Thorup was an advantage.

— Dimitri De CondéTechnical director of KRC Genk, explaining the decision to re-hire Jess Thorup.

Thorup's previous tenure at Genk lasted only five matches before he accepted a more lucrative offer, a move that caused some surprise at the time. Technical director Dimitri De Condé acknowledged this history but highlighted Thorup's positive impression on club staff and players during his short stay. "The club's experience with Thorup was an advantage," De Condé stated, emphasizing the need for a coach with "metier, who knows the club and the Belgian league, and has worked at clubs under a lot of pressure."

De Condé addressed Thorup's past departure, attributing it partly to personal circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic, which had kept him from his family. He noted that Thorup always maintained respect for Genk and quickly agreed to return. "As a person, he also fits our club, so we have high expectations," De Condé added.

Thorup had made a great impression on many people in the short period he was there then, on people from the club but also on players.

— Dimitri De CondéTechnical director of KRC Genk, discussing Thorup's previous tenure.

Supporters attending an open training session expressed cautious optimism. "I think Thorup remains a top coach, regardless of the choice he made back then," one fan commented. "I hope, in any case, that this season goes better than last season, that Genk doesn't miss its start, and that we can aim for European football." Another supporter acknowledged the departure of the previous coaching staff but felt Thorup was a strong choice, noting the mutual familiarity between the coach and the club. The day also included a unique opportunity for fans to cycle through the stadium.

I think Thorup remains a top coach, regardless of the choice he made back then.

— KRC Genk supporterReacting to the appointment of Jess Thorup as the new head coach.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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