Vítor Bruno appointed Anderlecht coach, vows to keep De Cat

Vítor Bruno, 43, was introduced as RSC Anderlecht’s new head coach on Tuesday at Lotto Park, with CEO Kenneth Bornauw and sporting director Antoine Sibierski present. Bruno said he will meet one‑on‑one with Nathan De Cat to convince him to stay, and highlighted the first match against Hammarby on 23 July.

Bruno began his coaching career in 2008, almost twenty years ago, and started the 2024‑2025 season as head coach of FC Porto before departing after seven months. He then spent one and a half years without a club before taking the Anderlecht role.

He spent seven seasons as an assistant to Sérgio Conceição, working at Olhanense, Académica, Braga, Vitória Guimarães, Nantes and FC Porto. In France he also supervised Guillaume Gillet, who briefly trained under him.

Bruno explained his philosophy, stating “Ik ben hun Waze niet.” and adding “Ik hoef spelers niet te vertellen wat ze moeten doen.” He said he will provide resources but will not dictate every decision.

He praised the squad, noting “Ik ben heel blij met onze spitsen: Cvetkovic, Sikan en Bertaccini – die in mijn ogen weliswaar geen echte spits is.” He added that Romelu Lukaku would have to work if he arrives and that no playing guarantee exists. Bruno also reiterated his intent to keep Nathan De Cat, saying “Ik wil graag één‑op‑een met hem samenzitten… Ik reken op De Cat.”

Sporting director Antoine Sibierski said three pillars – personality, coaching and management – guided the choice, and that Bruno matched his vision perfectly. Sibierski mentioned that Alfred Schreuder was also considered, but Bruno’s discipline, modesty and work ethic convinced him.

Bruno outlined his tactical aim: “Ik wil wedstrijden winnen vanuit balbezit en met dominant voetbal.” He said the first objective is the Hammarby game on 23 July, not an end‑of‑season target.

During the first training session at the Neerpede complex, Bruno gathered players Giulian Biancone, Cedric Hatenboer and Nathan De Cat, noting that all wore shin guards – a rarity in professional training, but a standard under his guidance.