After a period of numerous declarations and communications, things have become strangely quiet in recent days on the Deinze side. Players also complained about a lack of information.
Doudou Cisséthe club’s new owner, admits that the situation should have been different: “The fact that we didn’t keep the players informed? It’s a mistake. I went to see them three times to explain my version of the facts, but the third time the players’ behavior was unacceptable and disrespectful,” he told Sporza.
Cissé emphasizes that he is still ready to continue the dialogue with the players: “The day before yesterday, I tried to reassure them again. Last week, I also had a discussion with the coach and the Captain. I’m definitely not afraid to talk to people, if only to clarify that I have good intentions.”
Despite his efforts, the situation seemed increasingly tense, with strikes and several players asking to leave the club. The owner understands the players’ frustration, but asks them for patience.
“I understand their disbelief, their uncertainty and their stress, but they must give me time. I need time to put everything back in order. We do not come to the club to make up the numbers, but to work and provide them with a future.”
However, the situation is becoming more and more difficult for Cissé: “All of Belgium is currently against us and is negative about everything we do. I don’t understand why there is suddenly such a wave of hatred and personal attacks “, he said. Cissé even claims to have received threats, whether personally or towards his family.
“Normally taking over a club takes two to three months, but we have to do it in six days. That’s why I don’t understand why people don’t give us a little more breathing space.”
The owner of Deinze, who has been active in football for 15 years, including as a players’ agent and advisor, honestly admits to regretting the takeover: “Yes, of course,” he sighs. “But no matter what, we will go all the way for Deinze. We are not coming into a club to walk around. This week or next week the money will arrive. We will soon be able to pay large parts of the salaries, stadium and licensing costs.”
