Brussels, Belgium – August 2, 2023 – anderlecht midfielder Mario Stroeykens is facing an uncertain future at the club after missing recent training due to a personal matter, fueling speculation about a potential transfer before the August 31st window closes. The situation differs sharply from a recent player standoff at the club, adn highlights a delicate balance between player ambition and club needs.

The 22-year-old Stroeykens, who has not signed a contract extension with Anderlecht, was absent from training Tuesday to attend a funeral, according to club press manager Mathias Declercq. He is expected to be available for selection in the upcoming Europa Conference League qualifier against Sheriff Tiraspol.

Head coach Marc Hasi acknowledged Stroeykens’ current state of mind, stating, “I think [Sporting/Anderlecht] is still in his head. I spoke several times with him, even Tuesday. I had given him priority to the number ’10’ position during the readiness. But in the meantime,Thorgan Hazard has seized his luck in this position and the roles are reversed. Though, I know the qualities of Mario.It’s up to him to react.” Hasi emphasized that player commitment is paramount, stating, “I do not push anyone towards the exit, but the one who plays must give himself 100%.”

Stroeykens’ situation contrasts with that of fellow midfielder Kasper Dolberg, who is reportedly a potential departure target for the club. Dolberg has two years remaining on his contract, while Stroeykens’ deal expires at the end of the current season.

The defeat against Häcken in the Champions league qualifying rounds reportedly affected Stroeykens deeply, with sources indicating he felt responsible for the loss. Despite this, the club maintains a firm stance on transfers, only willing to let Stroeykens depart for a suitable offer. Interest from foreign clubs exists, but potential suitors are hesitant to meet Anderlecht’s valuation, particularly given Stroeykens’ performance dip in the latter half of the previous season.

anderlecht management had previously made a significant effort to retain Stroeykens,offering him a contract extension,which he declined. This decision was reportedly not well-received by the club. The situation is markedly different from the recent case of Jashari, who refused to train in an attempt to force a move to AC Milan.

Hasi reiterated his authority in team selection, stating, “For me, things are very clear: It is the club that decides which players come and leave. And it’s up to me to decide who plays.”

Context: Anderlecht’s Transfer Strategy & Player Dynamics

Anderlecht, based in Brussels, belgium, is one of the most historically successful football clubs in the country, boasting 34 Belgian league titles. The club is currently undergoing a period of rebuilding under the ownership of Marc Coucke, aiming to restore its former glory. The club’s transfer policy focuses on a blend of experienced players and promising young talents, with a strong emphasis on financial sustainability.

The Stroeykens case highlights the increasing challenges faced by clubs in retaining players with expiring contracts. The Bosman ruling allows players to negotiate pre-contract agreements with other clubs six months before their contracts expire, giving players significant leverage. Anderlecht’s stance reflects a desire to avoid losing valuable assets for free and to recoup a transfer fee for players who are unwilling to commit to the club’s long-term vision.

the competition for the number ’10’ position, now occupied by Thorgan Hazard, adds another layer to Stroeykens’ situation. Hazard, a Belgian international, joined Anderlecht in July 2023 from Borussia Dortmund, and his arrival has clearly impacted Stroeykens’ opportunities.