Gent's loan gamble: Hatim Es-Saoubi to Greece for more minutes

KAA Gent, confronting a shortage of minutes for its young centre‑back and a crowded defensive line after Christian Burgess arrived, have opted to loan 25‑year‑old Moroccan defender Hatim Es‑Saoubi to Greek side Volos FC for the 2025‑26 season in order to secure regular game time.

"Hatim Es‑Saoubi plays the coming season on loan for the Greek Volos FC. The loan spell runs until the end of the season," the club announced in a press release. The statement confirms the loan will cover the full campaign.

The 25‑year‑old made his move to KAA Gent in the summer of 2025 but saw limited action, recording 194 minutes across ten matches last season. In the playoffs under coach Rik De Mil he managed only one minute, a tally hampered further by injury setbacks.

Transfermarkt values Es‑Saoubi at roughly €800,000, and his contract with KAA Gent runs until June 2029. The club therefore retains a long‑term interest in his development despite the temporary departure.

KAA Gent wished Es‑Saoubi success in Greece, noting this is the second announcement on the club’s website on Wednesday after news of Tom Vandenbulcke. The same day the Rode Duivels were also set to feature in club communications.

The loan to Volos FC offers the defender a chance to accumulate playing minutes and gain experience abroad. Should he thrive, Gent expect him to return stronger and compete for a place in the Arteveldestad’s defensive ranks.