Vincent Kompany parts ways with Anderlecht
Vincent Kompany is no longer the head coach at Belgian football team RSC Anderlecht. After one season as a player and two as a coach, it was "jointly decided" to part ways, according to a press release on Wednesday.
According to British media, Kompany is on his way to Burnley, which relegated to the English second division last weekend. Belgian media report that a successor is already in the waiting room in Felice Mazzu. Last season, Mazzu piloted newly-promoted Union to second place in the Belgian top division.
"The club and the coach have analysed the past season together and discussed the plans for the future. In doing so, they have jointly decided to part ways. This is done with a great deal of mutual respect and gratitude for what was achieved together," the announcement reads.
Last season, RSCA finished third in the Jupiler Pro League and lost the Cup Final to AA Gent. On the European side, there was an early elimination in the qualifying rounds.
Kompany is a child of the Anderlecht house and ended his career as a football player there after a career at the world top. He went on to become Anderlecht's head coach, but his coaching ambitions have since moved elsewhere. "Today only one feeling prevails: I am proud that I was able to start this new chapter at the club of my heart," said Kompany. "I have been a player and a coach for RSC Anderlecht, but above all I remain a loyal supporter of purple and white."
"Vincent was an essential part of the rebuild of the renewed RSC Anderlecht," CEO Peter Verbeke added. "He has brought professionalism and expertise and has also been important in the development of young players. The club will continue to build on these foundations."
Despite the departure of the club icon, president Wouter Vandenhaute looks to the future with confidence.
"The club and the coach can be proud of their cooperation. I have every confidence in both our futures. Vincent Kompany will also succeed without RSC Anderlecht, and RSC Anderlecht will also succeed without Vincent Kompany."
(KR)
Anderlecht's former head coach Vincent Kompany during a soccer match between Club Brugge KV and RSC Anderleht © BELGA PHOTO KURT DESPLENTER