KV Kortrijk Squad 2024/25
Introduction
The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for KV Kortrijk as the club aims to build on its recent performances and establish itself as a competitive force in Belgian football. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents, the squad has been meticulously assembled to balance defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking firepower. This season, the management has made strategic signings while retaining key players, ensuring depth and versatility across all positions. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the KV Kortrijk squad for the 2024/25 campaign, examining each player’s background, strengths, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Tom Vandenberghe
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Club Brugge, OH Leuven (loan), Waasland-Beveren
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Tom Vandenberghe has been a reliable presence between the sticks for KV Kortrijk since his arrival in 2022. Known for his sharp reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Vandenberghe has consistently delivered crucial saves in high-pressure situations. Standing at 1.90 meters, he dominates aerial duels and possesses excellent distribution skills, often initiating quick counterattacks. His experience in the Belgian Pro League, including stints at Club Brugge and OH Leuven, has made him a vital leader in the squad.
- Marko Ilić
- Nationality: Serbian
- Former Clubs: Voždovac, Gent, FC Vizela (loan)
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
Marko Ilić joined KV Kortrijk in 2023 and has quickly established himself as a formidable competitor for the starting goalkeeper role. The Serbian shot-stopper is renowned for his agility and ability to pull off acrobatic saves. At 26 years old, Ilić brings a blend of youth and experience, having previously played in Portugal’s Primeira Liga with FC Vizela. His composure under pressure and ability to read the game make him a valuable asset for the team.
- Lucas Pirard
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Standard Liège (youth), RFC Seraing
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Lucas Pirard, a promising young goalkeeper, was signed in 2024 to provide depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. At just 22 years old, Pirard has already shown glimpses of his potential during his time at RFC Seraing. His quick reflexes and ability to play out from the back align with modern goalkeeping demands. While still developing, Pirard is seen as a long-term investment for the club.
Defenders
- Aleksandar Radovanović
- Nationality: Serbian
- Former Clubs: Red Star Belgrade, FC Ufa, KV Mechelen
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2023)
Aleksandar Radovanović is a towering central defender who joined KV Kortrijk in 2023. Standing at 1.94 meters, he is a dominant force in aerial duels and excels in reading the game. Radovanović’s experience in top European leagues, including the Russian Premier League, has honed his defensive instincts. His ability to play out from the back and his leadership qualities make him a cornerstone of Kortrijk’s defense.
- Bryan Reynolds
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: FC Dallas, AS Roma, Westerlo (loan)
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2024)
Bryan Reynolds, a dynamic right-back, was signed in 2024 to bolster Kortrijk’s defensive and attacking options. The American international is known for his blistering pace and ability to contribute to both ends of the pitch. Reynolds’ time at AS Roma and his loan spell at Westerlo have equipped him with valuable experience in European football. His crossing ability and defensive awareness make him a key player in the squad.
- Felipe Avenatti
- Nationality: Uruguayan
- Former Clubs: Peñarol, Sint-Truiden, FC Utrecht
- Transfer Fee: €800,000 (2023)
Felipe Avenatti, primarily a forward, has occasionally been deployed as a left-back due to his versatility and work rate. The Uruguayan’s physicality and tactical intelligence allow him to adapt seamlessly to defensive duties. Avenatti’s experience in multiple leagues, including the Eredivisie, adds depth to Kortrijk’s defensive options.
- Kristiyan Malinov
- Nationality: Bulgarian
- Former Clubs: CSKA Sofia, Fiorentina, FC København
- Transfer Fee: €600,000 (2024)
Kristiyan Malinov, a versatile defender, was brought in during the 2024 transfer window to provide cover across the backline. The Bulgarian international is known for his tactical discipline and ability to play as a center-back or defensive midfielder. Malinov’s experience in Serie A and the Danish Superliga has made him a reliable option for Kortrijk.
- João Silva
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Former Clubs: Sporting CP (youth), FC Famalicão, CD Tondela
- Transfer Fee: €400,000 (2024)
João Silva, a young left-back, joined KV Kortrijk in 2024 to add depth to the defensive line. The Portuguese defender is known for his attacking prowess and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses. Silva’s technical skills and defensive awareness make him a promising prospect for the future.
Midfielders
- Youssef Challouk
- Nationality: Moroccan
- Former Clubs: Raja Casablanca, FC Utrecht, Alanyaspor
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2024)
Youssef Challouk, a creative midfielder, was signed in 2024 to add flair and vision to Kortrijk’s midfield. The Moroccan international is known for his dribbling skills and ability to unlock defenses with precise passes. Challouk’s experience in the Eredivisie and Turkish Süper Lig has made him a valuable addition to the squad.
- Abdoulaye Sissako
- Nationality: French
- Former Clubs: Paris FC, FC Lorient, KV Oostende
- Transfer Fee: €750,000 (2023)
Abdoulaye Sissako is a defensive midfielder who joined KV Kortrijk in 2023. The Frenchman is renowned for his tackling ability and positional awareness. Sissako’s physical presence and ability to break up play make him a crucial component of Kortrijk’s midfield.
- Mbaye Diagne
- Nationality: Senegalese
- Former Clubs: Juventus, Galatasaray, West Bromwich Albion
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Mbaye Diagne, primarily a forward, has been utilized in an attacking midfield role due to his technical skills and vision. The Senegalese international brings a wealth of experience from top European leagues, including the Premier League and Serie A. Diagne’s ability to score and create goals makes him a versatile asset for Kortrijk.
- Luca Oyen
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Genk, Roda JC (loan)
- Transfer Fee: €300,000 (2024)
Luca Oyen, a young attacking midfielder, was signed in 2024 to inject creativity into Kortrijk’s midfield. The Belgian prospect is known for his quick feet and ability to operate in tight spaces. Oyen’s potential and technical skills make him an exciting player to watch.
- Amine Benchaib
- Nationality: Algerian
- Former Clubs: ES Sétif, FC Zürich, Al-Fayha
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2024)
Amine Benchaib, a box-to-box midfielder, joined KV Kortrijk in 2024. The Algerian international is known for his energy and ability to contribute to both defense and attack. Benchaib’s experience in the Swiss Super League and Saudi Pro League has made him a well-rounded addition to the squad.
Forwards
- Isaac Davies
- Nationality: Nigerian
- Former Clubs: Enyimba, KAA Gent, FC Nordsjælland
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2024)
Isaac Davies, a pacy winger, was signed in 2024 to add firepower to Kortrijk’s attack. The Nigerian international is known for his dribbling skills and ability to score from distance. Davies’ experience in the Danish Superliga has made him a key player in Kortrijk’s frontline.
- Sheyi Ojo
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Liverpool, Fulham, Cardiff City
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Sheyi Ojo, a versatile forward, joined KV Kortrijk in 2024. The Englishman is known for his pace and ability to play on either wing or as a central striker. Ojo’s experience in the Premier League and Championship adds depth to Kortrijk’s attacking options.
- Mamadou Koné
- Nationality: Ivorian
- Former Clubs: ASEC Mimosas, FC Basel, FC Luzern
- Transfer Fee: €900,000 (2023)
Mamadou Koné, a powerful striker, joined KV Kortrijk in 2023. The Ivorian international is known for his physicality and ability to hold up play. Koné’s experience in the Swiss Super League has made him a reliable goal-scoring threat.
- Daan Heymans
- Nationality: Belgian
- Former Clubs: Antwerp, Waasland-Beveren, Beerschot
- Transfer Fee: €200,000 (2024)
Daan Heymans, a versatile forward, was signed in 2024 to provide depth in attack. The Belgian is known for his work rate and ability to play across the frontline. Heymans’ experience in the Belgian Pro League makes him a valuable squad player.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 KV Kortrijk squad is a well-balanced mix of experience and youth, with players capable of competing at the highest level. The management has made astute signings to address key areas, ensuring the team is equipped to challenge for a top-half finish in the Belgian Pro League. With a strong defensive core, a creative midfield, and a dynamic attack, KV Kortrijk is poised to make a significant impact this season. Fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with thrilling performances and memorable moments.