Prior to the final game of the season, it was confirmed that Bern Storck would not be renewing his contract with Kortrijk. The former Cercle Brugge, Genk and Eupen head coach had been brought in to keep the side in the top flight and he had managed to do that, turning them into a tough team to beat. Despite Storck saying he was open to stay at the club, should there be investment, it appears that he did not get the answer he was looking for.
For the fans of Kortrijk, this will certainly be a warning to them that next season could involve another relegation battle. They are certain to lose Faiz Selemani, their top performing Comoros international winger. The 29-year-old led the side in terms of goals with eight, one ahead of striker Felipe Avenatti. He also provided the joint most assists with four, alongside Kristof D’Haene. The side only managed 37 goals in 34 games this season, the joint second lowest with Oostende. Only RFC Seraing had less with 28. It is hard to see where the side will replace Selemani’s goals without investing.
Without investment, they will probably have to sell a few other key players to strengthen the rest of the squad. One of these could be Algerian international Abdelkahar Kadri, whose play during the back end of the season was crucial in their survival. Selling both Selemani and Kadri may help free up the funds for a striker, but it also needs to be weighed up with the cost of losing out on both of these players at the same time.
As of now, the club are set to lose 14 players in the summer, with a number returning to their parent clubs or not having their deals renewed. Club captain D’Haene is also retiring. His leadership will certainly need replacing.
Without a host of new additions, Kortrijk’s survival this season could just be a stay of execution.
GBeNeFNÂ |Â Ben Jackson
