Jonathan Alves and Joseph Akpala strengthen Nicky Hayen's first team staff
Jonathan Alves (42) joins from RSC Anderlecht, where he had been assistant coach since December 2024. The French-born Portuguese previously served as assistant coach at RC Lens, Toulouse, FC Lausanne, RWDM, and Zulte Waregem, and was also head coach of the Belgian U19 national team. At Club, Alves will take on the role of Team Development Coach, responsible for the long-term vision within the coaching staff.
Joseph Akpala (38) arrives from KV Kortrijk, where he spent the past three seasons as assistant coach.
The former striker played for Club Brugge from 2008 to 2012 and now returns as part of the coaching team. Akpala will serve as Player Development Coach, focusing on the individual development of first-team players.
In addition to Alves and Akpala, Mitch Delcour will also join the first-team staff. Delcour was appointed head coach of Club NXT after the departure of Robin Veldman and now steps up to the first team as Pathway Coach. In this role, he will be responsible for the individual development and progression of young players between Club NXT and the senior team.
Alves and Akpala strengthen the team alongside Head Coach Nicky Hayen, Game Preparation Coach Hayk Milkon, Physical Coach Eddie Rob, and Goalkeeper Coach Wouter Biebauw.