Yves Vanderhaeghe was introduced on Wednesday, for the third time in his career, as head coach of KV Kortrijk. He sees this as a “welcome Christmas present”, but in his own words, he expected it.
KV Kortrijk did not remain without a coach for long. Freyr Alexandersson was fired on Tuesday evening and the next morning the club already announced the arrival of an old acquaintance, namely Yves Vanderhaeghe.
He immediately conducted his first practice, then met with the press. THE Newspaper relayed this “first” speech for the 54-year-old coach as coach of the Kerels, where he is, in a way, returning to the fold.
“I’ve always been happy here and I’m grateful to the club for allowing me to come back for the third time,” Vanderhaeghe began. “Kortrijk gave me the chance to progress as an assistant (from 2008 to 2014) before becoming head coach and I experienced a lot here.” Vanderhaeghe reached the top 6 with KVK, as well as a Cup semi-final during his second stint.
“When the question came up, I immediately said yes. It’s also a good opportunity for me to put myself back forward. I’ve achieved great things in the past, but I was afraid of being fallen into oblivion these days. That’s why this opportunity comes at the right time. It’s a welcome Christmas gift”, smiles Yves Vanderhaeghe.
According to his own words, the person concerned still expected it a little. “Yes. Like I said, I’ve done an outstanding job as head coach here. In my first four years as T1, I made it to Play-Off 1. I’m not saying that it’s still relevant today, but it shows that I can lead a group and develop a game plan. I’m happy not to be forgotten here in Belgium,” he concludes.
