Football Season Guide

Mechelen had a decent last season after a slow start. The first few months were hard but once Besnik Hasi was appointed in charge in November the results improved fast. Mechelen missed out on Play-off I by just 2 points. They finished second in Play-off II after that to wrap up what was a consistent campaign. Yellow and Reds developed good defensive stability under Hasi. They finished the campaign with the fourth most clean sheets – 11. This attracted attention and this summer key defensive pieces left. So far, the summer has been tough for Mechelen. Already, 5 of the regulars from last year left. Among them the impressive goalie Coucke, the 2 best centre-backs in the spring Garananga and Cobbaut. Experienced striker Selemani was also released. He scored some important goals during the play-offs. Ortwin De Wolf was signed and is likely to become Mechelen’s new main goalie. Jules Van Cleemput and José Marsà, 2 other newcomers, will be competing for a starting spot in defence next to the only regular from last term left Bates. All 3 will be starters when Mechelen opt to use a 3-man defence. Hasi was very flexible with his tactics. He used 4 different formations last season and was more than happy to change the shape based on the opponents. More of the same can be expected from him going forward. Mechelen accumulated some serious cash from the players sold and they can be expected to invest some of that soon. Strengthening the attack is a must. The only typical centre forward on the books right now is the inconsistent all of last season Lion Lauberbach. The team’s most aggressive winger Nikola Storm spent the vast majority of last season out injured. He hopes for much better health this term. If Storm can play often he could be used as a false nine, but his true strength is on the flank. His crossing abilities have been compared to those of the English legend David Beckham. Captain Rob Schoofs remains the main figure in midfield. Mrabti also plays an important role, while after the departure of Mukau experienced Konate is expected to start most games as the main anchor-man.