JPL
Nicky Hayen’s next move: Racing Genk coach eyeing Burnley hot seat
Nicky Hayen (45) is set to leave Racing Genk after just six months in charge, with Burnley emerging as his next destination. The Belgian coach is the leading candidate to replace Scott Parker at the English club, which was relegated from the Premier League last season.
Burnley has been actively searching for a new head coach since Parker’s departure, and Hayen’s name has now surfaced as the primary target. Insiders suggest the move is highly likely, with Hayen already in advanced talks with the Championship side.
For Racing Genk, Hayen’s potential exit would come at a critical time. The club, which appointed him in December as successor to Thorsten Fink, has yet to secure a Champions’ Play-offs spot this season and also missed out on European qualification. A departure now would force Genk to find a replacement just one week into pre-season preparations.
Hayen himself has indicated he is close to an agreement with Burnley, though the final details still require resolution with Genk. The club confirmed Burnley is the preferred destination, adding urgency to the situation.
Burnley departed for a pre-season tour in the United States on Friday, with Hayen expected to follow once the transfer is finalised. The Championship side, which Vincent Kompany guided back to the Premier League in a record campaign, now looks to Hayen to maintain that momentum.
Racing Genk’s technical staff are assessing the fallout, with the club’s hierarchy acknowledging the challenge of replacing Hayen so soon after his appointment. The situation remains fluid, but the likelihood of Hayen’s move is increasing by the hour.