Sporting director Antoine Sibierski is seeking winners to break the vicious cycle of losses at RSC Anderlecht. The club has invested over 15 million euros this summer on a squad fit for the Europa League, a goal that seems within reach after a 0-3 away win against Almaty in Kazakhstan.
This analysis was published on 26 August 2026 by Kjell Doms, Anderlecht correspondent for HLN Voetbal. The focus now shifts to translating European form to the Jupiler Pro League, where Anderlecht currently sits 10th with three points from two matches. The team has scored two goals and conceded two, with a recent form of loss and win.
The financial injection from owner Marc Coucke was clearly aimed at returning the club to Europe. The victory in Kazakhstan, which has all but secured Europa League qualification, appears to justify that policy. The money was spent on players who are supposed to bring a winning mentality, something Sibierski is explicitly searching for. Fans have voiced their displeasure with results, however, with Coucke becoming a target for chants.
An emotional moment after an earlier qualification highlighted the pressure. Adriano Bertaccini was consoled by teammates, coach Vitor Bruno, and supporters, illustrating the intense atmosphere surrounding the club. The current league start, sitting six points behind leaders Club Brugge, only increases the need for improvement.
The Portuguese manager held a training session immediately after the recent match against La Louvière. "Als het kon, dan speelden we morgen al tegen Almaty," Bruno said, showing his desire for continuity and momentum. His direct approach is meant to prepare the squad for upcoming challenges, including a visit to the notorious Greek stadium of PAOK and the important league match against Union SG.
The next test is the away fixture against Union St. Gilloise on 30 August, who are seventh in the table. This is a direct confrontation to close the gap in the standings. Fans can always check the upcoming schedule on our fixtures page.
Antoine Sibierski stresses that finding players with a winner's mentality is key. The story isn't just about spending money, but about attracting personalities who perform under pressure. The squad's reaction to Bertaccini shows there is mutual support, a foundation to build upon.
There are also signs of engagement off the pitch. During a padel tournament organized by Jan Vertonghen, Marc Coucke was the most popular 'player' with a bid of 1600 euros. Such events keep the club connected to its community, but the real proof must be delivered on the grass. Current team statistics and individual performances can be followed via our stats hub.
First up is the away match against Union SG. A positive result is needed to improve the league position, currently in the bottom half. Three points from two games is insufficient for a club with European ambitions. The defense, which has conceded two goals, and the attack, which has scored two, must find more consistency.
The focus remains on breaking the cycle. The investment has been made, European qualification is within grasp, and the coach is driven. **Now it's up to the squad to prove on the pitch that they are the winners Sibierski is looking for.
