Eupen became the first side to be relegated from the Belgian Pro League after their 1-0 defeat to Kortrijk this weekend. The side were always going to struggle this season when it became clear that the sides Qatari backers were not interested in putting resources into the team this season. With a limited budget that saw them unable to really strengthen the squad, it was always going to be difficult. It is not surprising that their eight year stay in the Pro League came to an end this season.
Fans, who are the ultimate victims when it comes to relegation, may well be worried about the clubs chances of bouncing back. Questions will certainly be raised as to what the owners goals for the club are now that they have been relegated, and if their lack of investment in the summer while they were in the Pro League will continue next season in the second tier.
In terms of contracts, only seven players are set to leave with contract or loans expiring at the end of this campaign. However, financially, the club may well need to sell other players to repurpose the squad for second tier football. One of their top performers, 24-year-old Gary Magnée, is likely to leave and will probably be of interest to other Belgian top flight sides.
It is a sad moment for Eupen and their fans, but they immediate future and the direction of the club is also of concern given the lack of interest from the owners this season.
GBeNeFNÂ |Â Ben Jackson
