Officieel Burnley appoint Nicky Hayen after Kompany’s counsel

Officieel, Vandaag at 10:23, KRC Genk announced that 45‑year‑old Nicky Hayen will leave the België side for Burnley, signing a multi‑year contract that runs until mid‑2029. The move ends his brief spell at the Cegeka Arena, where he succeeded Thorsten Fink after being dismissed by Club Brugge.

Burnley sees Hayen as the ideal candidate to guide the club back to the Premier League after its recent relegation to the Championship. The English club believes his experience can accelerate a swift return to top‑flight football. Both Burnley and Genk have agreed on the terms of the transfer.

According to Het Belang van Limburg, Vincent Kompany played a part in Hayen’s decision. The former Burnley manager reportedly explained the workings of the Engelse club to the Belgian coach. Hayen said the conversation convinced him to make the move.

The departure leaves the Belgische Limburgers at Genk without a head coach midway through pre‑season preparations. Hayen had only taken charge at the Cegeka Arena in late December, succeeding Thorsten Fink after his dismissal by Club Brugge. In his short tenure Genk failed to secure a Europees ticket, though the club remained supportive of the trainer.

For Burnley, Hayen’s contract runs until mid‑2029, giving the club stability as it targets promotion. Genk must now search for a successor to continue its campaign. The move underscores the cross‑border influence of Belgian coaching talent on English football.