Christian Burgess joins La Gantoise to boost European ambitions

La Gantoise secured a European berth after defeating Genk in the play‑off, finishing fifth in the Champions Play‑offs last season. The club now looks to accelerate progress with the arrival of defender Christian Burgess, whose experience is expected to help the Buffalos aim for a top‑four finish.

Rik De Mil praised his squad after the European play‑off win over Genk. “We fought for this since the winter break, trying to get the most out of every match. This group really deserved it,” he said.

The preparation window before the first European match is about four weeks, De Mil explained. “We have fought so hard for Europe, so we must be ready. I still see a lot of work, the group must progress and be reinforced,” he added.

De Mil outlined the club’s ambition to become a side that can directly chase European football and finish in the top four. “For now we are a team for the top five or top six. We still have steps to cross,” he noted.

The arrival of Christian Burgess gives La Gantoise a second experienced centre‑back alongside Siebe Van der Heyden, offering tactical flexibility. De Mil now has the option to switch to a three‑man defence, a system both Van der Heyden and Burgess already know. The move also underlines La Gantoise’s intent to strengthen its squad in the Belgian Pro League.

Defenders Duverne and Hashioka are expected to return to their parent clubs after their loans, potentially leaving La Gantoise to seek further reinforcements. Meanwhile, Paskotsi and Volckaert can continue developing, while Matisse Samoise remains sidelined with a serious injury, missing the start of the season and the Conference League qualifiers.

Kotto and Nurio Fortuna have already left the Planet Group Arena, leaving open questions about future arrivals. De Mil must assemble a cohesive unit in the coming weeks to meet European expectations and deliver immediate results in the league without play‑offs.