Thomas Claes seeks dream debut against former academy Genk

On a crisp Sunday morning at the Regenboogstadion, Zulte Waregem will kick off the 2024‑25 Jupiler Pro League against KRC Genk. Midfielder Thomas Claes, a product of the Genk academy where he spent fifteen years, faces a personal milestone as the clubs meet at 16:00.

The encounter also marks the first competitive appearance of new head coach Michael Beale. Beale has introduced a different tactical approach for the Belgian side.

For Zulte Waregem the season opens at their own stadium against one of the strongest teams in the Jupiler Pro League. The test offers the newly promoted club an early challenge and a platform to showcase summer progress.

Thomas Claes admitted he has been looking forward to the meeting for weeks. “Absolutely. It is extra special that we start the season against Genk,” he told the Krant van West‑Vlaanderen, underscoring the emotional weight of the fixture.

Claes noted that under Beale the team now works “in zones instead of man‑on‑man,” praising the individualized coaching each line receives from the technical staff.

He also highlighted a more attacking role given to him on the pitch. “I get a more offensive role. That suits me very well,” he added, emphasizing the freedom to push forward.

Claes aims to stun his former side and begin the campaign with three points, a goal fueled by recent contact with former Genk teammates after the calendar was released. Zulte Waregem enters the match unbeaten since 22 March and hopes to build on that momentum.

The midfielder joked about Marly Aké as a possible sensation, saying, “And if I score on Sunday, you may do an interview every week from then on.” The match will be streamed live on Voetbalkrant.com from 16:00 on 09/08, with a photo credit to © photonews NIEUW.