KAA Gent

Gent underachieved last season as they finished 5th and missed out on the Champions Playoffs. However, they ensured the campaign didn’t end with a whimper, managing to win the European playoffs. They put excellent runs together during the season but were susceptible to damaging short term dips in form. The off season has seen them so far hold onto their prized assets although talented young striker Orban continues to be linked to a move away. The squad has been trimmed somewhat, the most notable departure is that of mercurial midfielder Odjidja-Ofoe. Valuable defender Piatkowski has returned to his parent club but astute defensive reinforcements have been brought in with Watanabe and Kandouss joining. Gent has a well-balanced quality squad with a potent threat up front, Cuypers and Orban contributed 29 league goals between them last season. Tissoudali is another attacking option, he had an injury disrupted season last campaign but in 2021/22 he hit 19 league goals. Expectations will certainly be high following a takeover in the summer. Experienced boss Hein Vanhaezebrouck is under a bit of pressure after two seasons failing to make the Champions playoffs. It feels like a good start to the season is important.