Royal Charleroi SC Squad 2024/25
Introduction
Royal Charleroi Sporting Club, one of Belgium’s most storied football teams, enters the 2024/25 season with a squad brimming with talent, ambition, and a mix of experienced veterans and promising youngsters. Under the guidance of their astute management, the club has meticulously assembled a roster capable of competing at the highest levels domestically and in European competitions. This season’s squad reflects a blend of strategic acquisitions, homegrown talent, and retained key players, all united by a common goal: to bring glory to Charleroi. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the squad, categorized by position, highlighting each player’s unique attributes, career trajectory, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Hervé Koffi (Burkina Faso)
A cornerstone of Charleroi’s defense, Hervé Koffi continues to be a reliable presence between the posts. The Burkinabe international joined the club in 2017 from ASEC Mimosas and has since established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in the Belgian Pro League. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Koffi has been instrumental in securing crucial points for Charleroi. Standing at 1.88 meters, he excels in one-on-one situations and has a knack for pulling off spectacular saves. His leadership qualities and experience make him a vital asset for the team. - Martin Delavallée (Belgium)
The young Belgian shot-stopper, Martin Delavallée, serves as a capable understudy to Koffi. Having risen through the ranks of Charleroi’s youth academy, Delavallée embodies the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. At just 22 years old, he has already shown glimpses of his potential during cup appearances and substitute roles. His agility and composure under pressure make him a promising prospect for the future. Delavallée’s development will be closely monitored as he aims to challenge for the starting spot in the coming years. - Jens Teunckens (Belgium)
A seasoned backup goalkeeper, Jens Teunckens provides depth and experience to Charleroi’s goalkeeping department. The 30-year-old Belgian joined the club in 2020 from Waasland-Beveren, where he had been a consistent performer. While primarily serving as a backup, Teunckens’ professionalism and readiness to step in when called upon have earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike. His distribution skills and ability to organize the defense are valuable assets.
Defenders
- Stefano Marzo (Belgium)
Stefano Marzo, a versatile Belgian right-back, has been a mainstay in Charleroi’s defense since his arrival in 2019 from KV Mechelen. Known for his tireless work rate and overlapping runs, Marzo is equally adept at defending and contributing to the attack. His ability to read the game and deliver pinpoint crosses has made him a fan favorite. At 32, Marzo brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the backline, often mentoring younger players. - Zeno Debast (Belgium)
Zeno Debast, a rising star in Belgian football, joined Charleroi in 2023 from Anderlecht for a transfer fee of €5 million. The 20-year-old center-back is renowned for his composure on the ball, excellent positioning, and ability to play out from the back. Debast’s performances have already drawn interest from top European clubs, but Charleroi has managed to retain his services for the 2024/25 season. His partnership with the experienced Kaveh Rezaei has been pivotal in shoring up the defense. - Kaveh Rezaei (Iran)
Kaveh Rezaei, the Iranian international, has been a rock at the heart of Charleroi’s defense since his arrival in 2021 from Club Brugge. Known for his physicality and aerial prowess, Rezaei is a dominant presence in both boxes. His leadership and ability to marshal the backline have been crucial in high-stakes matches. At 32, Rezaei continues to defy age with his consistent performances and unwavering commitment. - Adem Zorgane (Algeria)
Adem Zorgane, primarily a midfielder, has occasionally been deployed as a defensive utility player due to his versatility. The Algerian international joined Charleroi in 2022 from Paradou AC for a fee of €3 million. Zorgane’s technical skills, vision, and ability to break up play make him a valuable asset in multiple positions. His adaptability and work ethic have endeared him to the coaching staff and fans. - Joris Kayembe (DR Congo)
Joris Kayembe, the Congolese left-back, has been a consistent performer for Charleroi since his arrival in 2020 from Gent. Known for his pace and dribbling ability, Kayembe is a constant threat down the left flank. His defensive acumen and ability to track back quickly make him a well-rounded full-back. At 29, Kayembe is in the prime of his career and continues to be a key figure in the squad.
Midfielders
- Ryota Morioka (Japan)
Ryota Morioka, the Japanese playmaker, has been a creative force in Charleroi’s midfield since joining in 2020 from Sint-Truiden. Known for his vision, passing range, and set-piece expertise, Morioka is the engine that drives the team’s attacking play. His ability to dictate the tempo and unlock defenses with incisive passes has made him indispensable. At 33, Morioka’s experience and technical prowess remain vital to the team’s success. - Marco Ilaimaharitra (Madagascar)
Marco Ilaimaharitra, the Malagasy defensive midfielder, joined Charleroi in 2021 from FC Sochaux for a fee of €2.5 million. A tenacious tackler and excellent ball-winner, Ilaimaharitra provides the necessary balance in midfield. His ability to break up opposition play and initiate counterattacks has been crucial in tight matches. At 28, he is entering his prime and continues to be a key cog in the midfield. - Lorenzo Staelens (Belgium)
Lorenzo Staelens, a product of Charleroi’s youth academy, has emerged as one of the most promising young midfielders in Belgium. The 21-year-old is known for his energy, technical skills, and ability to drive forward with the ball. Staelens’ breakthrough season in 2023/24 earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup, and he is expected to play an even bigger role this season. - Daan Heymans (Belgium)
Daan Heymans, a versatile Belgian midfielder, joined Charleroi in 2022 from KV Oostende. Known for his work rate and ability to play multiple positions, Heymans is a valuable squad player. His knack for scoring crucial goals and providing assists has made him a reliable option off the bench. At 26, Heymans is entering his peak years and will look to cement his place in the starting XI.
Forwards
- Shamar Nicholson (Jamaica)
Shamar Nicholson, the Jamaican striker, has been a revelation since joining Charleroi in 2023 from Spartak Moscow for a fee of €4 million. Known for his physicality, pace, and clinical finishing, Nicholson has quickly become the team’s primary goal threat. His ability to hold up play and bring others into the game adds another dimension to Charleroi’s attack. At 27, Nicholson is in the form of his life and will be crucial to the team’s success. - Ali Gholizadeh (Iran)
Ali Gholizadeh, the Iranian winger, joined Charleroi in 2020 from Charleroi for a fee of €2 million. A technically gifted player with excellent dribbling skills, Gholizadeh is a constant menace to opposition defenses. His ability to cut inside and unleash powerful shots has resulted in numerous spectacular goals. At 28, Gholizadeh remains a key figure in Charleroi’s attacking setup. - Anass Zaroury (Morocco)
Anass Zaroury, the Moroccan forward, joined Charleroi on loan from Burnley in 2024. The 23-year-old is known for his pace, trickery, and ability to deliver precise crosses. Zaroury’s versatility allows him to play on either wing or as a secondary striker, providing the team with tactical flexibility. His loan spell is seen as an opportunity to regain form and confidence. - Kylian Hazard (Belgium)
Kylian Hazard, the younger brother of Eden Hazard, joined Charleroi in 2021 from Cercle Brugge. Known for his technical skills and creativity, Hazard has been a valuable contributor in the final third. While injuries have hampered his progress, Hazard remains a talented player capable of changing the course of a game. At 29, he will look to make a significant impact this season.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Royal Charleroi SC squad is a well-balanced mix of experience, youth, and talent. With a solid defensive foundation, a dynamic midfield, and a potent attack, the team is well-equipped to challenge for honors on multiple fronts. The club’s strategic recruitment and emphasis on developing young players have laid the groundwork for sustained success. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and memorable moments from this exciting group of players. Charleroi’s ambition is clear, and the squad is ready to rise to the occasion.