Sint Truidense V.V Squad 2024/25
Sint Truidense V.V., commonly known as STVV, is a Belgian professional football club based in Sint-Truiden. Competing in the Belgian Pro League, the club has a rich history and a passionate fanbase. The 2024/25 season marks an exciting chapter for STVV, as they aim to build on recent successes and challenge for higher honors. This season’s squad is a blend of experienced veterans, promising young talents, and strategic new signings. Below, we take an in-depth look at the players who will don the STVV jersey this season, categorized by their positions: goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards.
Goalkeepers
1. Daniel Schmidt
Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Vegalta Sendai, Eintracht Frankfurt, Sint Truidense V.V. (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Daniel Schmidt returns to STVV as the first-choice goalkeeper after a brief stint exploring other opportunities. The Japanese shot-stopper is renowned for his commanding presence in the box, exceptional reflexes, and ability to organize the defense. Standing at 6’6”, Schmidt is a formidable figure during set-pieces and one-on-one situations. His previous spell at STVV saw him keep 15 clean sheets in the 2022/23 season, earning him the club’s Player of the Year award. Schmidt’s experience and leadership will be crucial for STVV’s defensive stability this season.
2. Kenny Steppe
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: KRC Genk, Lommel SK, STVV (youth academy)
Transfer Fee: Promoted from youth academy
Kenny Steppe, a product of STVV’s youth system, has been promoted to the senior squad as the backup goalkeeper. The 22-year-old Belgian has shown immense potential during his time with the reserves, boasting excellent distribution skills and a calm demeanor under pressure. While he lacks top-flight experience, Steppe’s development has been closely monitored, and he is expected to provide reliable cover for Schmidt. His agility and quick reflexes make him a promising prospect for the future.
3. Jens Teunckens
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: KVC Westerlo, STVV (youth academy)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (return from loan)
Jens Teunckens rejoins STVV after a loan spell at KVC Westerlo, where he gained valuable first-team experience. The 24-year-old Belgian is a versatile goalkeeper known for his shot-stopping ability and strong aerial presence. While he is unlikely to challenge Schmidt for the starting spot, Teunckens provides depth and competition in the goalkeeping department. His familiarity with the club’s setup makes him a dependable option when called upon.
Defenders
1. Robert Bauer
Nationality: German
Former Clubs: FC Ingolstadt, New England Revolution, FC Twente
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (from FC Twente in 2023)
Robert Bauer, the German right-back, is a key figure in STVV’s defense. Known for his tireless work rate and precise crossing, Bauer is equally adept at defending and contributing to the attack. Since joining from FC Twente in 2023, he has established himself as a fan favorite, delivering consistent performances and chipping in with crucial assists. His experience in multiple leagues adds valuable depth to STVV’s backline.
2. Joel Chima Fujita
Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Nagoya Grampus, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Joel Chima Fujita, a versatile Japanese defender, returns to STVV after a brief loan spell. Capable of playing as a center-back or defensive midfielder, Fujita is praised for his tactical intelligence and ability to read the game. His composure on the ball and strong tackling make him a reliable option in defense. Fujita’s return bolsters STVV’s defensive options and provides flexibility in formation choices.
3. Mathias Delorge
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: KRC Genk, STVV (youth academy)
Transfer Fee: Promoted from youth academy
Mathias Delorge, a 20-year-old center-back, has been promoted to the senior squad after impressing in the youth ranks. The Belgian defender is known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and ability to play out from the back. While still developing, Delorge has shown maturity beyond his years and is expected to feature in cup competitions and as a rotational option in the league.
4. Gianni Bruno
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: Zulte Waregem, Charleroi, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Gianni Bruno, primarily a forward, has been utilized as a makeshift center-back in certain tactical setups. The Belgian’s versatility and physicality make him a unique option in defense. Bruno’s experience and leadership qualities add depth to STVV’s defensive unit, and his ability to contribute in both boxes is a valuable asset.
5. Frank Boya
Nationality: Cameroonian
Former Clubs: Union Douala, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Frank Boya, the Cameroonian left-back, is a dynamic defender known for his pace and overlapping runs. Boya’s defensive discipline and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses make him a vital component of STVV’s attacking play. His return to the squad adds balance to the defense and provides an additional threat down the left flank.
Midfielders
1. Christian Brüls
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: Standard Liège, Red Bull Salzburg, KAS Eupen
Transfer Fee: €1 million (from KAS Eupen in 2023)
Christian Brüls, the experienced Belgian midfielder, is the heartbeat of STVV’s midfield. Known for his vision, passing range, and set-piece expertise, Brüls has been instrumental in creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Since joining from KAS Eupen in 2023, he has registered 10 assists and 3 goals, solidifying his role as a key playmaker.
2. Aboubakary Koita
Nationality: Mauritanian
Former Clubs: FC Metz, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Aboubakary Koita, the Mauritanian winger, is a fan favorite known for his flair and goal-scoring ability. Koita’s pace and dribbling skills make him a constant threat on the wing, while his eye for goal has seen him net crucial strikes for STVV. His return adds firepower to the squad and provides a creative outlet in the final third.
3. Daichi Hayashi
Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Sagan Tosu, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Daichi Hayashi, the Japanese attacking midfielder, is a technically gifted player with an eye for goal. Hayashi’s ability to link play and create chances has been pivotal for STVV. His return to the squad ensures continuity in the attacking midfield role and adds depth to the team’s creative options.
4. Luis García
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: FC Barcelona B, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Luis García, the Spanish central midfielder, is a versatile player known for his work rate and tactical awareness. García’s ability to break up play and distribute the ball efficiently makes him a key component of STVV’s midfield. His return strengthens the squad’s depth and provides a reliable option in the engine room.
Forwards
1. Kahveh Zahiroleslam
Nationality: Iranian
Former Clubs: Sepahan SC, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Kahveh Zahiroleslam, the Iranian striker, is a clinical finisher with a knack for scoring in crucial moments. Zahiroleslam’s movement and positioning make him a constant threat in the box, and his return to STVV adds a proven goal-scorer to the squad.
2. Yuma Suzuki
Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Kashima Antlers, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Yuma Suzuki, the Japanese forward, is a dynamic attacker known for his physicality and goal-scoring prowess. Suzuki’s ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game makes him a valuable asset. His return ensures STVV has a reliable focal point in attack.
3. Fatih Kaya
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Galatasaray, STVV (re-signed)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (re-signed in 2024)
Fatih Kaya, the Turkish winger, is a pacey and skillful player capable of changing the game with his dribbling and creativity. Kaya’s return adds depth to STVV’s attacking options and provides a different dimension to their play.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Sint Truidense V.V. squad is a well-balanced mix of experience, youth, and talent. With key players re-signing and promising youngsters stepping up, STVV is poised to make a significant impact in the Belgian Pro League. The club’s strategic recruitment and focus on player development reflect their ambition to compete at the highest level. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football and a team that will fight for every point.