Union Saint Gilloisen rohkea valinta David Hubert aloittaa uuden luvun Belgian jalkapallon satutarinassa
Belgian football witnessed an unexpected twist on Monday when Royale Union Saint-Gilloise – the club that has become the country’s great modern fairytale – named 37‑year‑old David Hubert as its new head coach.
A bold appointment in a moment of upheaval
For those who don’t immediately recognise the name, that’s understandable. Hubert isn’t a household figure or a serial winner forged in Europe’s elite dugouts. Instead, he is a young coach still taking his first real steps in senior management – which makes Union’s decision all the more daring. It’s a move that fits perfectly with their reputation for originality and courage.
How the vacancy appeared
The story began when AS Monaco triggered the release clause of Union’s successful manager Sébastien Pocognoli over the weekend. His departure, coming right as Union prepared for a Champions League campaign, left a sudden void. Instead of chasing a veteran replacement, Union moved decisively in a different direction – and placed their trust in Hubert.
Who is David Hubert?
A former midfielder known for his leadership and reading of the game, Hubert only switched to coaching recently. He first gained experience assisting at Anderlecht, then took charge at Oud‑Heverlee Leuven, leading a team struggling at the foot of the table. While the results there – around a 46% win rate across 48 matches – were modest, insiders praised his calm communication and his knack for developing young players.
Why Union took the risk
This wasn’t merely a reaction to losing Pocognoli. Union have long built their identity around data‑driven decision‑making and long‑term planning. Choosing Hubert signals their intent to keep evolving rather than retreat into safe choices. He reflects a forward‑thinking philosophy – younger, analytical, and energetic enough to grow with the club.
The challenge ahead
Hubert faces enormous pressure. The Champions League qualifiers are approaching fast, leaving him only weeks to build trust, establish tactical rhythm, and meet the expectations of a fan base that now dreams on a continental scale. A slow start could ignite uncomfortable headlines, but a promising one could cement his legitimacy overnight.
Union’s remarkable ascent
Once the dominant Belgian force of the 20th century, Union Saint‑Gilloise vanished into obscurity before re‑emerging over the last decade with clever recruitment, progressive ideas, and a vibrant style of play. Now, with Europe’s biggest stage in sight, the next chapter of that renaissance bears a new signature – David Hubert’s.
What happens next
Hubert’s first task is obvious: make Union look like Union again. Expect small adjustments – tighter defensive structure, more disciplined buildup – while preserving the attacking verve that endeared this side to neutrals. If he balances these elements, Hubert could carve out a lasting name in Belgian football.
At a glance
- Club: Royale Union Saint‑Gilloise
- New head coach: David Hubert (37)
- Previous club: Oud‑Heverlee Leuven
- Replaces: Sébastien Pocognoli (joined AS Monaco)
- Record: 48 matches, 45.8% win rate
- Significance: An audacious, forward‑looking hire by a club on the brink of Champions League football
Union’s choice says much about their footballing philosophy: success isn’t always built on experience or familiarity. Sometimes, greatness comes from daring to step into the unknown – and who knows, perhaps this gamble will end beneath the bright lights of the Champions League.