KAA Gent

Gent had mixed fortunes last season. The Buffalos made a strong start to the campaign. They even looked like serious title contenders in the early months. Then the European involvement brought a decline. Also, during January Gent opted to sell their 3 big stars in attack for over 30 million euros. No major reinvestment was made. This led to Gent missing out on Play-off I on goal difference. The season was still saved though. With 8 wins in 10 play-off games Gent comfortably won Play-off II. Then they beat Genk 1:0 away in the final play-off test for the last available European visa. The long-serving head coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck was released at the end of the season. Somewhat strange Wouter Vrancken was appointed as his replacement. He came from the team Gent beat in the play-offs – Genk. Vranken is not yet rushing to spend the money generated in the winter. The only 2 new signings so far are strikers Andri Gudjohnsen and Max Dean. Both are young players with the former more likely to start often. The only notable departure up to now is that of the main goalkeeper Paul Nardi. While he was out with a broken leg last season Davy Roef proved he’s ready to become the new number one, so Gent are not in any rush to look for a new goalie. Important inner midfielder De Sart and Kums had health issues often last season. Both hope to have better luck this term as their presence on the pitch is important. Gent boast very good depth in almost every position on the pitch. The new manager uses mainly 3-4-1-2 and 3-4-2-1 shapes. This was what Gent used often last term too so the players should be pretty familiar with these formations. Gent might lose a few more regulars before the transfer window is over. However, this will happen at a price Gent are happy with. This added to the significant sum of money from the winter that remains uninvested should give Gent the chance to sign even better players if they wish to do so.