Gent's seven-year pledge for Bénes fuels experience drive

Belgian Pro League side KAA Gent have signed 28‑year‑old Slovak midfielder László Bénes from Union Berlin on a contract that runs until 2030. The deal follows a loan spell at Turkish club Kayserispor where Bénes featured in 32 matches, netting seven goals and providing two assists.

László Bénes began his football education at MŠK Žilina before moving abroad. His career has included spells at Borussia Mönchengladbach, Holstein Kiel, FC Augsburg and Hamburger SV, before joining Union Berlin.

KAA Gent described the midfielder as technically strong, adding creativity, game intelligence and top‑level experience to the squad. “Bénes is a technically strong central midfielder who adds creativity, game intelligence and experience to the core,” the club wrote in its press release.

Club chairman Sam Baro highlighted that, following the arrival of Christian Burgess, Gent are deliberately adding leadership and maturity. “Bénes must not only provide more quality and calm but also play a key role in the development of our young talents,” Baro said.

Head coach Rik De Mil praised the new signing’s professional work ethic. “László is an experienced midfielder with an excellent professional work ethic. He brings creativity and quality in the final third and will be a valuable addition for our young players group,” De Mil explained.

The acquisition underscores Gent’s ongoing strategy of blending seasoned internationals with homegrown prospects. After securing Christian Burgess earlier, the club’s focus on experienced midfielders reflects a wider trend among Belgian clubs to reinforce squads with veteran leadership.