Football Season Guide

Last season saw Union Saint-Gilloise again challenging at the top of the table but once again they couldn't secure the title. It was heartbreak for them on a fluctuating final day when three sides were battling for glory. The off season has seen the departure of Head Coach Karel Geraerts who did a superb job in his first senior managerial role, keeping up the momentum Union had built and arguably masterminding an improvement, within minutes of the title, a cup semi-final and a Europa League quarter-final. His replacement is Alexander Blessin, who failed at Italian side Genoa in his last job but previously enjoyed success and received plaudits during a spell at Oostende. Along with Geraerts, Union have lost some key players from last season, with club captain Teuma, dangerous winger Adingra plus valuable defenders Kandouss and Van der Heyden departing the club. Powerful striker Boniface could also be soon through the exit door. If Boniface leaves, Union will be hoping new recruit Kabangu will have a similar impact, he scored 13 goals in the Dutch second division last season. The other recruitment looks good, attacking midfielder Rasmussen, 15 goals and nine assists in the Norwegian second division last season, could prove an exciting addition. All round Union were excellent last season but the problem with the changes in manager and playing staff is repeating that feat. Although the same thing was said before last season and they ended up improving.