Anderlecht Contract Talks with Key Goalkeeper Coosemans Reach Critical point
Brussels, Belgium – Contract negotiations with Anderlecht goalkeeper Colin Coosemans have become increasingly complex as performance data reveals a shift in his impact, raising questions about his future role and salary expectations. While Coosemans remains teh club’s number one,recent statistics suggest a decline from his standout form last season,prompting Anderlecht to consider multiple scenarios ahead of potential renewal talks.
Last season, Coosemans conceded 0.91 goals per 90 minutes and emerged as a vocal leader, bridging generational and linguistic gaps within the squad.However, current season figures show a slight increase to 0.92 goals per 90, despite facing fewer shots (down from 4.18 to 2.98 per 90). His save percentage has dropped to 69.2%,and he currently has a prevented goals rate of -0.96.
A notable change in playing style also impacts the assessment. Passes per 90 have decreased from 33.7 to 21.6, coinciding with a more direct approach from Anderlecht.The percentage of long passes initiated by Coosemans has risen from 45% to 60%.
Anderlecht recognizes Coosemans’ value, having benefited from a +7.17 points gain above expectations last season. Currently, after eight matches, the performance metric is slightly negative, though the team has secured four clean sheets, including two consecutive.
Goalkeeper coordinator Silvio Proto acknowledged Coosemans’ past contributions, stating, “Colin was the star of Anderlecht last season and we should not forget that, but it is normal to think about the future.”
Anderlecht is currently evaluating three potential paths forward:
- Contract Extension: Offer a salary increase reflecting his current status as captain, prioritizing stability and sending a positive message to the team. This option risks rewarding Coosemans based on his previous peak performance.
- Delayed Evaluation: Maintain the option to extend while assessing his performance over the next 15-18 matches. This allows for a data-driven decision but introduces uncertainty regarding the captaincy.
- Explore Alternatives: proactively scout potential replacements, potentially leveraging market interest to moderate Coosemans’ salary demands. This carries the risk of losing a key player and disrupting team continuity.
The club explored potential goalkeeper options earlier this year, including Thomas Kaminski in June and Gaëtan Coucke, with kjell Peersman also considered as a backup. A decision regarding Coosemans’ future is expected in the coming months.
