Anderlecht seems to be finding its rhythm again. After a disappointing performance against Club Bruges, the Mauves went 9 out of 9 with 15 goals scored. A real awareness caused by their Bruges rival. And soon, Jan Vertonghen and Thorgan Hazard could strengthen the team.
No return in 2024 for Vertonghen and Hazard
Anderlecht supporters will have to wait, however. Jan Vertonghen and Thorgan Hazard will not return until January 2025. David Hubert has confirmed that the duo will not play again before the end of the year, ruling out any early return.
“No, we’re not going to rush them. We are respecting the initial plan to get them back into shape for 2025. There is no question of bringing them back two or three weeks earlier. We will follow the program to the letter and slow them down a little if necessary, because they really want to come back. But we will not take any risks,” explained Hubert on Radio 1.
Intensive physical preparation
The next few weeks will be dedicated to optimizing their physical condition. Both players, who have mainly focused on their rehabilitation in the gym, recently returned to training on the field. Anderlecht hopes that they will respond well to this increase in order to be fully ready from January.
A possible comeback against Club Brugge?
The calendar still includes matches against opponents like FC Porto, OHL, Westerlo, Beerschot, Slavia Prague, STVV, Genk and Dender without the two executives. But on January 11, 2025, Anderlecht will face… Club Brugge. An ideal date for the return of these two key players.
Plans for Vertonghen and Hazard
Vertonghen, as a central defender, could quickly find a starting place if he is fully operational. As for Hazard, he will undoubtedly be reintegrated gradually via appearances. The objective: for him to reach his best form in time for the Play-Offs, where his contribution could be decisive.
