KRC Genk Squad 2024/25: A Comprehensive Overview
KRC Genk, one of Belgium’s most storied football clubs, has consistently been a powerhouse in the Belgian Pro League and a breeding ground for top-tier talent. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the club has meticulously assembled a squad brimming with skill, experience, and youthful exuberance. This season’s roster reflects a blend of homegrown talent, shrewd acquisitions, and seasoned veterans, all aimed at maintaining Genk’s competitive edge domestically and in European competitions. Below, we delve into the squad, breaking it down by position and providing an in-depth analysis of each player.
Goalkeepers
Maarten Vandevoordt (Belgium)
Maarten Vandevoordt, a Belgian shot-stopper, has been a cornerstone of Genk’s defensive setup since his promotion to the first team. At just 22 years old, Vandevoordt has already amassed significant experience, having joined Genk’s youth academy in 2016. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and commanding presence in the box, he has drawn comparisons to some of Belgium’s finest goalkeepers. Vandevoordt’s ability to distribute the ball accurately under pressure has made him a modern-day sweeper-keeper. He has previously been linked with moves to top European clubs, but Genk has managed to retain his services, valuing him at approximately €15 million.
Tobe Leysen (Belgium)
Tobe Leysen, another Belgian talent, serves as a reliable backup to Vandevoordt. Leysen, 24, joined Genk from OH Leuven in 2022 for a modest fee of €1.5 million. While not as flashy as his counterpart, Leysen is a dependable goalkeeper with excellent positioning and shot-stopping abilities. His calm demeanor under pressure has earned him the trust of the coaching staff, making him a valuable asset in cup competitions and during injury spells for Vandevoordt.
Vito Van Crooij (Belgium)
Vito Van Crooij, a 19-year-old prospect, is the third-choice goalkeeper for Genk. A product of the club’s youth system, Van Crooij is seen as a future star. Although he has yet to make his senior debut, his performances in the youth leagues have been impressive, showcasing his agility and ability to read the game. Van Crooij is expected to gain experience through loan spells in the coming seasons.
Defenders
Joris Kayembe (Belgium/DR Congo)
Joris Kayembe, a versatile left-back, has been a consistent performer for Genk since his arrival from Charleroi in 2021 for €2.5 million. The Belgian-born Congolese international is known for his blistering pace, overlapping runs, and defensive solidity. Kayembe’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a key component of Genk’s backline. His leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions.
Carlos Cuesta (Colombia)
Carlos Cuesta, a Colombian center-back, joined Genk in 2020 from Atlético Nacional for €3 million. Cuesta has developed into one of the league’s most reliable defenders, known for his composure, aerial prowess, and ability to play out from the back. At 25, he has already attracted interest from clubs in Europe’s top leagues, but Genk has managed to keep hold of him, valuing his contributions highly.
Mark McKenzie (USA)
Mark McKenzie, an American international, arrived at Genk in 2021 from Philadelphia Union for €6 million. The 25-year-old center-back has quickly established himself as a fan favorite due to his no-nonsense defending and ability to read the game. McKenzie’s physicality and leadership have been instrumental in Genk’s defensive stability, and he has been linked with moves to the English Premier League.
Gerardo Arteaga (Mexico)
Gerardo Arteaga, a Mexican left-back, joined Genk in 2020 from Santos Laguna for €3.5 million. Known for his attacking flair and defensive tenacity, Arteaga has become a mainstay in Genk’s lineup. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and track back quickly has made him a dual threat on the left flank. At 26, he is entering his prime and continues to attract interest from larger clubs.
Mujaid Sadick (Spain/Nigeria)
Mujaid Sadick, a Spanish-Nigerian defender, has been with Genk since 2019, joining from Coruxo FC for €1.5 million. Primarily a center-back, Sadick is also capable of playing as a right-back. His versatility, combined with his strength and tactical awareness, makes him a valuable asset. Sadick’s ability to adapt to different defensive roles has been crucial for Genk’s tactical flexibility.
Patrik Hrosovsky (Slovakia)
Patrik Hrosovsky, a Slovakian defensive midfielder, often deputizes as a center-back when needed. Signed from Viktoria Plzen in 2019 for €2 million, Hrosovsky’s intelligence and ability to break up play have been vital for Genk. His experience and versatility provide the team with additional defensive cover, making him an unsung hero in the squad.
Midfielders
Bilal El Khannouss (Morocco)
Bilal El Khannouss, a Moroccan wonderkid, is one of Genk’s most exciting prospects. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder joined Genk’s youth academy in 2020 and has since risen through the ranks to become a first-team regular. Known for his dribbling, vision, and creativity, El Khannouss has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. His market value has skyrocketed to €20 million, and he is seen as a future star for both club and country.
Bryan Heynen (Belgium)
Bryan Heynen, a Belgian central midfielder, has been with Genk since 2015, progressing through the youth system. The 27-year-old is the heartbeat of Genk’s midfield, known for his work rate, passing accuracy, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Heynen’s leadership on and off the pitch has made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the squad.
Matías Galarza (Paraguay)
Matías Galarza, a Paraguayan midfielder, joined Genk in 2023 from Cerro Porteño for €4 million. The 22-year-old is a box-to-box midfielder with an eye for goal and a knack for breaking up opposition play. Galarza’s energy and technical ability have added a new dimension to Genk’s midfield, making him one of the most exciting young players in the league.
Luca Oyen (Belgium)
Luca Oyen, a Belgian winger, has been with Genk since 2021, joining from Lommel SK for €1 million. The 21-year-old is known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to deliver dangerous crosses. Oyen’s versatility allows him to play on either flank, providing Genk with attacking options and depth.
Alieu Fadera (Gambia)
Alieu Fadera, a Gambian midfielder, signed for Genk in 2023 from Zulte Waregem for €3 million. The 22-year-old is a dynamic presence in midfield, capable of driving forward with the ball and creating chances. Fadera’s physicality and technical skills have made him a valuable addition to the squad.
Forwards
Toluwalase Arokodare (Nigeria)
Toluwalase Arokodare, a Nigerian striker, joined Genk in 2023 from Valmiera FC for €5 million. The 23-year-old is a towering presence at 6’7”, known for his aerial ability and clinical finishing. Arokodare’s physicality and goal-scoring instincts have made him a focal point of Genk’s attack, and he is expected to play a key role this season.
Andi Zeqiri (Switzerland)
Andi Zeqiri, a Swiss forward, arrived at Genk in 2022 on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion before making the move permanent for €4 million. The 24-year-old is a versatile attacker capable of playing as a center-forward or on the wings. Zeqiri’s movement, finishing, and link-up play have been crucial for Genk, and he is seen as one of the team’s primary goal threats.
Yira Sor (Nigeria)
Yira Sor, a Nigerian winger, joined Genk in 2022 from Slavia Prague for €6 million. The 23-year-old is known for his blistering pace, dribbling, and ability to score from distance. Sor’s direct style of play has made him a nightmare for defenders, and he is expected to be a key contributor this season.
Mike Trésor (Belgium)
Mike Trésor, a Belgian attacking midfielder, has been with Genk since 2021, joining from Willem II for €2.5 million. The 24-year-old is a creative force, known for his vision, passing, and ability to score from midfield. Trésor’s flair and technical skills have made him a fan favorite and a vital part of Genk’s attacking setup.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 KRC Genk squad is a well-balanced mix of youth and experience, with players capable of competing at the highest level. From the commanding presence of Maarten Vandevoordt in goal to the attacking prowess of Toluwalase Arokodare up front, this team is built to challenge for domestic and European honors. With a blend of homegrown talent and strategic signings, Genk is poised for another exciting season. Fans can look forward to a campaign filled with thrilling football and memorable moments as the squad aims to cement its place among Belgium’s elite.