Former Gent manager Hein Vanhaezebrouck has called on Club Brugge to remain patient with Raphael Onyedika, despite the young midfielder's poor start to the campaign.
The Nigeria international displayed a lack of confidence during Club Brugge's recent 3-2 defeat to Genk, where the team squandered a commanding 2-0 lead, and has looked short of the form he displayed during the championship play-off round last season.
Onyedika found exceptional form towards the end of the season, making crucial contributions across the pitch, particularly in front of goal. His standout performances were instrumental in helping Blauw en Zwart secure the league title.
Anticipating interest in Onyedika, the club took proactive steps by securing 21-year-old Swiss international Ardon Jashari from FC Luzern as a potential replacement.
Raphael Onyedika too unique to sell
The prospect of allowing the Nigerian to leave has raised concerns for the experienced Vanhaezebrouck, who won the Belgian Pro League with Gent in the 2014-15 season.
The 60-year-old voiced concerns about the potential departure of the midfielder, highlighting Raphael Onyedika's irreplaceable value to the club in spite of his recent struggles.
“Bruges don’t have other players like him,” Vanhaezebrouck said as per Belgian publication Footnews.
“Ardon Jashari is not yet ready to succeed him. For me, this player can only leave if a good offer comes to the table from the Brugge management. I think they can expect 12 to 15 million euros.”
The 23-year-old joined Club Brugge from Danish giants FC Midtjylland two years ago, where he had spent two seasons.
He has previously attracted interest from English Premier League clubs such as Everton, Crystal Palace and West Ham, as well as several unnamed clubs in Saudi Arabia.
