Analysts say Club Brugge is not performing at last season's level following a loss to KAA Gent. The team is second in the Jupiler Pro League with nine points from four games, but the performances are raising concerns.
This analysis was published this week by Sporza Voetbal after the match against Gent. Former international Franky Van der Elst stated bluntly: "Club Brugge heeft op dit moment absoluut nog niet het niveau van vorig jaar." Manager Ivan Leko's side lost that match and also saw Carlos Forbs receive a red card. The defence has been solid, conceding only two goals so far this season.
The analysts pointed to a lack of offensive output and cohesion. The wingers Forbs and Mamadou Diakhon are reportedly difficult to predict, even for their own teammates. In midfield, Freddie Potts and Hugo Vetlesen form a solid but unexciting duo. Félix Lemaréchal made several disturbing ball losses and Virgili failed to convince.
The team lacks acceleration and plays too lethargically, preventing the attacking line from functioning properly. This contrasts sharply with the grit and mentality displayed by KAA Gent. After the match, manager Leko called for 'lions on the pitch,' but the analysis suggests they were missing. Despite being second with a +6 goal difference, urgency is required.
Although players like Christos Tzolis, Aleksandar Stankovic and Nicolo Tresoldi departed last season, the experts do not believe in a quick transfer fix. Riet Maes said on this: "Ik denk echter niet dat de oplossing nog op de transfermarkt ligt." According to the analysts, there is sufficient absolute quality in the current squad.
The problem is more mental and tactical than a matter of player material. Leko urgently needs to awaken team spirit and forge connections between the lines. The core of the title-winning squad is largely intact, but the spark is missing. The team trails leaders Charleroi by three points, increasing the pressure.
The manager has a clear task. He must motivate his players to rediscover the intensity and collective play of last season. The coming weeks will be decisive, starting with an away match against Lommel United on September 4.
Lommel currently sits eighth in the table and offers a chance to continue a record of three wins from four matches. The full league schedule can be found on our fixtures page. The squad, with all its qualities, is listed on our squad page. The next performance must come from the group itself, not a new signing. Club Brugge plays away against Lommel United on September 4 at 20:45.
