Finish position: 9th

Overview:

Going into the season, KV Mechelen fans would have been hopeful that with the way Besnik Hasi’s side had ended the previous campaign, they could push for a top six finish and perhaps even sneak a European ticket by winning play-off two. However, neither of those things worked out, with Hasi also losing his job. His replacement, Fred Vanderbiest, has been given the job on a permanent basis for 2025/2026.

Player of the Season: Rob Schoofs

Captain Schoofs has been one of the most consistent Mechelen players since he joined in 2017. The 31-year-old central midfielder played 40 games last season, scoring six goals and grabbing five assists. Schoofs is closing in on 300 appearances for the side, with 276 already completed.

Young Player of the Season: Bilal Bafdili

In truth, very few youngsters have made an impact for Mechelen this season. U23 in the starting line-up have been at a premium, but off the bench, 20-year-old Bilal Bafdili was the most impressive of the sides young guns. In 34 games for the side the midfielder grabbed four goals and two assists. He will be hoping to have more opportunities next season.

Summer needs:

The side need to find a new left-back to replace Daam Foulon. The Belgian defender has joined Antwerp and will be missed, as he is arguably one of the top players in the Pro League in his position. Jurgen Streppel is the sides new Director of Football and he will need to ensure that the side have a better season than this one.

Grade: C