From tomorrow, Marc Overmars can officially resume his work as sporting director of Antwerp. His one-year ban, imposed by the Institute for Sports Justice (ISR) and later recognized worldwide by FIFA, is over.
During this period, Overmars remained at a distance from his official duties, but informal contact with the club remained possible, allowing him to retain a certain influence behind the scenes, GvA knows.
Overmars strictly adhered to his suspension, even though it was frustrating. He stayed away from training, competitions and events, but occasionally came to the Bosuil for informal consultations with CEO Sven Jaecques.
“We call, sometimes go out for dinner and he regularly comes here for a coffee, but as soon as there are official matters, I have to send him home again,” Jaecques said recently. During his absence, the daily sporting tasks were taken over by Jaecques and head scout Joachim Vercaigne.
Yet it is clear that Overmars remained involved behind the scenes. The transfers of players such as Praet, Riedewald and Chery received his informal approval, and the appointment of Jonas De Roeck as coach did not happen without his confidence. Overmars also used this period to rest, which was necessary after his heart attack almost two years ago.
Sell Butez and Balikwisha?
Still, the question is how active Overmars will be in the winter mercato, since Antwerp is in savings mode. However, he could generate money by selling players like Jean Butez and Michel-Ange Balikwisha.
Despite the financial limitations, Overmars remains important for Antwerp’s long-term plans. His contract, which was tacitly extended until 2027, emphasizes the confidence of chairman Paul Gheysens.
