Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (RUSG), one of Belgium’s most historic football clubs, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. After securing promotion to the Belgian Pro League in 2021, the club has consistently punched above its weight, challenging traditional powerhouses and making waves in European competitions. The 2024/25 season promises to be another exciting chapter for the Brussels-based side, as they aim to build on their recent successes. With a blend of experienced veterans, emerging talents, and shrewd signings, Union SG’s squad is poised to compete on multiple fronts. This post delves into the detailed composition of the squad, breaking it down into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, while providing an in-depth analysis of each player’s background, attributes, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
Anthony Moris
Nationality: Luxembourgish
Former Clubs: Metz, Swift Hesperange, FC Differdange
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2019)
Anthony Moris has been a cornerstone of Union SG’s resurgence since joining the club in 2019. Known for his shot-stopping ability and commanding presence in the box, Moris has established himself as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the Belgian Pro League. His quick reflexes and ability to organize the defense have been instrumental in the team’s defensive solidity. Moris, who captains the side, brings leadership and experience, having represented Luxembourg at the international level. His consistent performances have made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the squad.
Lucas Pirard
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: Standard Liège, RFC Seraing
Transfer Fee: Undisclosed (2022)
Lucas Pirard serves as a dependable backup to Moris, providing depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. A product of Standard Liège’s youth academy, Pirard is known for his agility and ability to play out from the back. While he has seen limited first-team action, his performances in training and cup matches have shown promise. At 25 years old, Pirard is still developing and could challenge for the starting spot in the future.
Joachim Vandamme
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: Club Brugge (youth), KV Oostende (youth)
Transfer Fee: Academy product
A young and promising goalkeeper, Joachim Vandamme is the third-choice option for Union SG. Having come through the club’s youth ranks, Vandamme is highly regarded for his potential and work ethic. While he is yet to make his senior debut, his inclusion in the squad reflects the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. Vandamme’s development will be closely monitored as he aims to break into the first team in the coming years.
Defenders
Christian Burgess
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Peterborough United, Middlesbrough, Portsmouth
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Christian Burgess has been a revelation since joining Union SG, bringing stability and composure to the backline. Standing at 6’5”, Burgess is a dominant presence in both defensive and offensive set-pieces. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has made him a key figure in the team’s defense. Burgess’s leadership qualities and experience in English football have also been invaluable, helping the team navigate high-pressure situations.
Kōki Machida
Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Kashima Antlers
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2023)
Kōki Machida’s arrival from Kashima Antlers added a new dimension to Union SG’s defense. Known for his pace, technical ability, and versatility, Machida can play as a center-back or right-back. His adaptability and willingness to join the attack have made him a valuable asset. Machida’s performances have also earned him recognition on the international stage, with call-ups to the Japanese national team. His signing represents Union SG’s ambition to attract talent from across the globe.
Bart Nieuwkoop
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Feyenoord, Willem II
Transfer Fee: €1 million (2021)
Bart Nieuwkoop has been a consistent performer at right-back since joining from Feyenoord. His tireless work rate, defensive discipline, and ability to contribute in attack have made him a fan favorite. Nieuwkoop’s experience in the Eredivisie and his understanding of the game have been crucial in Union SG’s tactical setup. He is also known for his versatility, capable of playing as a wing-back or in midfield when required.
Ismaël Kandouss
Nationality: Moroccan
Former Clubs: Raja Casablanca, FC Brussels
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
Ismaël Kandouss has emerged as a reliable option in central defense, combining physicality with technical skill. His ability to play out from the back and his aerial prowess make him a well-rounded defender. Kandouss’s journey from the Moroccan league to the Belgian Pro League is a testament to his determination and talent. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with rumors of interest from larger European clubs.
Siegfried Gnaka
Nationality: Ivorian
Former Clubs: FC Basel, FC Aarau
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
Siegfried Gnaka provides depth at left-back, offering pace and attacking flair. The Ivorian defender joined Union SG from FC Basel and has quickly adapted to the team’s style of play. Gnaka’s ability to overlap and deliver accurate crosses adds an extra dimension to the team’s attack. While still developing defensively, his potential is evident, and he is expected to play a more prominent role in the coming seasons.
Ross Sykes
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Accrington Stanley
Transfer Fee: €750,000 (2023)
Ross Sykes joined Union SG from Accrington Stanley, bringing physicality and a no-nonsense approach to the defense. His ability to win aerial duels and make crucial tackles has made him a valuable addition. Sykes’s transition from English League One to the Belgian Pro League has been seamless, showcasing his adaptability and determination. His partnership with Burgess has been particularly effective, forming a formidable defensive duo.
Midfielders
Cameron Puertas
Nationality: Swiss
Former Clubs: Lausanne-Sport, FC St. Gallen
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)
Cameron Puertas has been a revelation in midfield, combining creativity, vision, and work rate. The Swiss playmaker joined Union SG from Lausanne-Sport and has quickly become a key figure in the team’s attacking play. Puertas’s ability to dictate the tempo and deliver incisive passes has earned him widespread acclaim. His performances have also attracted interest from larger clubs, but Union SG will be keen to retain his services.
Lazare Amani
Nationality: Ivorian
Former Clubs: ASEC Mimosas, FC Sion
Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2022)
Lazare Amani is a dynamic midfielder known for his energy and box-to-box capabilities. The Ivorian international joined Union SG from FC Sion and has been a consistent performer. Amani’s ability to break up play and drive forward with the ball makes him a vital cog in the team’s midfield. His work ethic and determination have endeared him to the fans, and he continues to be a key player for the club.
Loïc Lapoussin
Nationality: Malagasy
Former Clubs: FC Fleury 91, FC Chambly
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2021)
Loïc Lapoussin is a versatile midfielder who can play in multiple positions, including central midfield and on the wings. The Malagasy international joined Union SG from FC Chambly and has been a consistent performer. Lapoussin’s technical ability, vision, and work rate make him a valuable asset. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has been crucial to the team’s success.
Charles Vanhoutte
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: KV Kortrijk, Cercle Brugge
Transfer Fee: €1 million (2023)
Charles Vanhoutte is a technically gifted midfielder known for his passing range and composure on the ball. The Belgian joined Union SG from KV Kortrijk and has quickly established himself as a key player. Vanhoutte’s ability to control the midfield and dictate play has been instrumental in the team’s tactical setup. His experience in the Belgian Pro League and his leadership qualities make him a valuable addition to the squad.
Mathias Rasmussen
Nationality: Norwegian
Former Clubs: Brann, FC Nordsjælland
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2023)
Mathias Rasmussen is a creative midfielder known for his vision and ability to score from distance. The Norwegian joined Union SG from FC Nordsjælland and has been a consistent performer. Rasmussen’s ability to unlock defenses with his passing and his eye for goal make him a valuable asset. His performances have also earned him recognition on the international stage, with call-ups to the Norwegian national team.
Forwards
Mohamed Amoura
Nationality: Algerian
Former Clubs: ES Sétif, Lugano
Transfer Fee: €3 million (2023)
Mohamed Amoura is a dynamic forward known for his pace, dribbling, and finishing ability. The Algerian international joined Union SG from Lugano and has been a consistent goal scorer. Amoura’s ability to stretch defenses and create chances for himself and his teammates makes him a key player. His performances have also earned him recognition on the international stage, with call-ups to the Algerian national team.
Gustaf Nilsson
Nationality: Swedish
Former Clubs: IFK Göteborg, Wehen Wiesbaden
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2022)
Gustaf Nilsson is a towering forward known for his aerial ability and hold-up play. The Swedish striker joined Union SG from Wehen Wiesbaden and has been a consistent performer. Nilsson’s ability to bring others into play and his eye for goal make him a valuable asset. His performances have also earned him recognition on the international stage, with call-ups to the Swedish national team.
Casper Terho
Nationality: Finnish
Former Clubs: HJK Helsinki
Transfer Fee: €1 million (2023)
Casper Terho is a young and promising forward known for his pace and technical ability. The Finnish international joined Union SG from HJK Helsinki and has shown glimpses of his potential. Terho’s ability to take on defenders and create chances makes him an exciting prospect. His development will be closely monitored as he aims to break into the first team in the coming years.
Dennis Eckert Ayensa
Nationality: German
Former Clubs: FC Ingolstadt, FC St. Gallen
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)
Dennis Eckert Ayensa is a versatile forward known for his work rate and ability to score goals. The German joined Union SG from FC St. Gallen and has been a consistent performer. Eckert Ayensa’s ability to play across the front line and his eye for goal make him a valuable asset. His performances have also earned him recognition on the international stage, with call-ups to the German U-21 national team.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Royale Union Saint-Gilloise squad is a blend of experience, youth, and international talent. With a solid defensive foundation, a creative midfield, and a dynamic attack, the team is well-equipped to compete on multiple fronts. The club’s ability to identify and develop talent, coupled with shrewd signings, has been key to their recent success. As Union SG continues to challenge traditional powerhouses and make waves in European competitions, the future looks bright for this historic club. Fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with thrilling performances and memorable moments.
