Since taking over as head coach, it has never been a “walk in the park” for Stef Wils – especially after nearly every talented player was sold over the past two years. Granted, the club achieved an unprecedented outgoing transfer total of almost €150 million, an absolute record. But that success came at a steep price: the current squad quality is arguably at its lowest point in nearly a decade. As a result, RAFC sits in a disappointing 14th place out of 16 in the Pro League – a situation that almost inevitably led to Stef losing his job.
It was time for a new direction. Antwerp has now found that in manager Joseph Oosting, a 53-year-old Dutchman. He may be relatively unknown to many outside the Netherlands, but at home he made a name for himself with RKC Waalwijk and, more notably, with FC Twente – a team he guided very successfully into the Europa League last season.
Oosting signs a 2.5-year contract and will be supported by assistant Nicky Hofs. Combined with what we hope will be a stronger incoming transfer strategy during the upcoming winter break, this coaching change might just turn things around for the Great Old. Reaching the top six – which grants a spot in the Championship Playoffs for the last time this season – will be an almost impossible mission for Oosting’s side, but with the inauguration of the brand-new Tribune 2 at the next home match, let’s hope a new manager and a new stand can ignite a fresh spark of magic at the Bosuil.
Wishing our new coach all the best. 🔴⚪️ Come On You Reds!