Hearts close in on Belgian coach as next manager

Hearts are reportedly closing in on a Belgian head coach to replace Derek McInnes, who left for Rangers less than a week earlier. The 47-year-old finished third with Sint-Truiden in Belgium's top division, the club's highest placing in 60 years. " He added that the coach chose Hearts over possible moves to France or Germany because of the prospect of Champions League football and the club's recent success.

The coach took over Sint-Truiden in April 2025 while the club faced relegation. Within one year the team reached the title play-offs despite a modest budget compared with larger Belgian sides. Sint-Truiden qualified for the Europa League for the first time.

The team finished third for goals scored and created high numbers of chances while averaging 55 percent possession. It also ranked first in set-piece goals and fourth in accurate long balls per match.

Coaching style and career path The coach has spoken throughout his career about a preference for attacking football. A commentator on the Belgian league said the team played "fabulous attacking football" with quick transitions and an aggressive press.

After retiring as a player at 31, the coach worked part-time in Belgium's fourth tier while holding jobs in banking and insurance. He later guided Mechelen to promotion and the Belgian Cup, then took Genk to the final day of the 2022-23 title race. The consultant said the coach understands the model used by Hearts owner Tony Bloom because he has faced Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium.