Issame Charai Reportedly Appointed New Manager of Belgian Side Westerlo
Former Rangers assistant coach Issame Charai is set to embark on a fresh managerial chapter, with reports emerging that he has been appointed as the new head coach of Belgian Pro League side K.V.C. Westerlo. The 51-year-old tactician, who recently parted ways with the Scottish giants after a short stint at Ibrox, is believed to have accepted the offer to lead the Belgian outfit ahead of the new season.
Charai, who previously held coaching roles with the Moroccan national team and in the Belgian football system, is no stranger to Westerlo, having played for the club during his professional career. His return in a managerial capacity marks a significant moment for both Charai and the club, which is aiming to rebuild following a turbulent campaign.
Sources close to the club suggest that Westerlo’s board has high hopes for Charai’s appointment, viewing his diverse coaching experience and knowledge of both domestic and international football as vital assets. His brief tenure at Rangers, under the leadership of Philippe Clement, added a high-level European club to his coaching resume and expanded his tactical horizons.
Westerlo endured a challenging 2024/25 season, narrowly avoiding relegation. With the appointment of Charai, the club is aiming for a period of stability and progressive development. The board believes his familiarity with the Belgian football landscape, along with his strong player management skills, will help nurture the club’s young talent and steer them towards mid-table security, and possibly a push for a top-six finish.
Charai is expected to be officially unveiled later this week, with preseason preparations set to begin shortly. Early reports indicate he has already started discussions regarding potential backroom staff and player recruitment plans. Westerlo fans are hoping that his arrival will spark a renewed sense of purpose and discipline within the squad.
While Charai’s managerial career is still in its early stages, the Westerlo hierarchy appears confident that this appointment will mark a turning point. With his passion for the game, multilingual ability, and tactical acumen, Charai will be under pressure to deliver results quickly, but he’ll also have the full backing of the board to instill his philosophy.
This appointment could be a defining moment in Charai’s career and a fresh start for a Westerlo side eager to climb the Belgian football ranks.