Genk’s search for Hayen’s successor takes an unexpected turn

The KRC Genk have parted ways with Nicky Hayen, leaving the club to find a new head coach. With Burnley waiting for Hayen, the Limbourgeois are already looking ahead with confidence, despite the unexpected timing.

Genk confirmed the departure in a press release earlier this week, stating: “A month before the start of the championship, this is obviously not a scenario we expected.” The club is now tasked with finding Hayen’s successor.

In the interim, Peter Balette returns to the technical staff as assistant coach. Balette brings extensive experience from his previous spells at Genk, adding weight to the club’s immediate plans. He will jointly lead first-team training with Domenico Olivieri until a permanent appointment is made.

According to Het , the club is considering a familiar figure: Jess Thorup. The 56-year-old Dane has previous experience at Genk, having managed the club in 2020 before leaving after five league matches and a 15-point return.

Thorup’s time at Gand left mixed impressions, while his two-year stint at Augsbourg followed. Most recently, he worked in Egypt with Al Ahly until last month, leaving him contract-free. His brief Genk tenure had been viewed positively, raising the question of whether he is the right man to lead the club back to the top.

Balette’s interim role adds stability, but the search for a permanent solution continues under pressure.