Issame Charai Linked with Westerlo Head Coach Role After Being Fired by Rangers.
Former Rangers assistant coach Issame Charai has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to take over as head coach at Belgian club K.V.C. Westerlo. This development follows his recent departure from the Scottish giants after a five-month stint as part of Philippe Clement’s backroom staff at Ibrox.
Charai’s time at Rangers came to a close amid a wider reshuffling of the coaching structure as the club looks to head in a new direction under manager Philippe Clement. While the Belgian coach’s departure may have seemed abrupt to some, it appears Charai may not be out of work for long, with reports from Belgium suggesting he is in line to assume a top managerial role at Westerlo.
Westerlo, who are seeking a new head coach ahead of the 2025/26 season, have turned their attention to Charai due to his strong familiarity with Belgian football and impressive coaching credentials. Charai has previously worked with the Belgium U21 national team and boasts a reputation for tactical insight and player development.
According to Belgian media outlets, Westerlo sees Charai as the ideal candidate to lead the club into a new era, especially as they aim to bounce back from a difficult campaign in the Belgian Pro League. His experience working alongside top-level managers and handling high-pressure environments, as seen during his time at Rangers, could be a valuable asset in stabilizing and improving the squad.
While there has yet to be official confirmation from either party, discussions are believed to be at an advanced stage. Should Charai accept the role, it would mark his first major head coaching job at the senior club level. The potential move would also signal a return to familiar territory, as Charai began his coaching career in Belgium and remains well-connected within the country’s footballing circles.
Westerlo’s search for a new manager comes at a crucial time, with preseason preparations on the horizon. The club is eager to finalise the appointment swiftly to begin planning for the upcoming season, and Charai’s availability following his Rangers exit has made him an appealing option.
If appointed, Charai will be tasked with revamping the squad and restoring consistency to Westerlo’s performances in the Belgian top flight. His imminent appointment could mark a significant turning point both for his coaching career and for Westerlo’s ambitions.