Lokeren gamble on Dindane legacy as son signs for Belgian side

Twenty‑three‑year‑old Aboubacar Dindane, son of former Anderlecht striker Aruna Dindane, has signed for Lokeren in Daknam, aiming to revive a career that stalled after only four National 2 appearances and a three‑year spell without a club, after a 1‑6 pre‑season win over Oudenaarde.

Aruna Dindane arrived at Anderlecht from the Ivorian academy ASEC Mimosas and quickly established himself at the Belgian club. He recorded 66 goals and 46 assists in 183 matches, won the Belgian Golden Shoe in 2003 and secured league titles in 2000 and 2005.

His performances earned a €3 million transfer to Lens, a loan spell at Portsmouth, and later stints in Qatar and at Crystal Palace. Aruna retired in 2014 and has since closely monitored his son’s development.

Aboubacar Dindane, born while his father was champion with Anderlecht, began his football education at US Vimy, situated between Lens and Arras. He later moved to CS Avion but managed only four appearances in France’s National 2 during the 2021/2022 season.

Following that brief spell, he spent three years without a club, seeking a platform to restart his professional trajectory. Lokeren emerged as the first club willing to offer him a contract, signing him a week ago.

Dindane has already featured in Lokeren’s pre‑season friendly, contributing to a 1‑6 victory over Oudenaarde. If he can regain rhythm and confidence, the club indicated he may earn a place in the Belgian Division 1 B squad.