Image Credits: Imago Images
Giovanni van Bronckhorst left Liverpool earlier this month as part of the backroom clear-out that followed Arne Slot’s dismissal, ending a short stint on Merseyside as one of Slot’s assistant coaches.
The Dutchman had only arrived at Anfield last summer.
Once Slot was removed and Andoni Iraola came in, Van Bronckhorst and the rest of that coaching team were moved on, freeing him up for a rapid return to management.
Feyenoord moved quickly, rehiring their former player and title‑winning coach to succeed Robin van Persie and handing him a two‑year deal with an option for a further year.
The appointment has also reunited him with another ex‑Liverpool figure, with former Arne Slot assistant Sipke Hulshoff – who also left Anfield this month – confirmed as his number two in Rotterdam.
With the dugout settled, Van Bronckhorst’s transfer act back at De Kuip has been to add steel to his midfield with the capture of Belgian midfielder Charles Vanhoutte from OGC Nice.
The 27‑year‑old has signed a four‑year contract and becomes Feyenoord’s first summer arrival.
Speaking for the first time as a Feyenoord player, Vanhoutte said:
“I’m really looking forward to this new adventure,” he said.
“Feyenoord is a wonderful club to play for. Of course because of the sporting aspect, in which competing for the national prizes and participation in the Champions League are central. I’m really looking forward to that.”
“But also as a person I feel that Feyenoord suits me. Perseverance and team spirit are of paramount importance here, and those qualities fit me like a glove. That’s why I can’t wait to start preparing for the new season and go for success together with the supporters.”
Vanhoutte is primarily a central or defensive midfielder, known for his work rate, ball‑winning and ability to keep possession ticking rather than eye‑catching goal returns.
After emerging at Union Saint‑Gilloise, he earned a move to Nice last summer, making over 20 Ligue 1 appearances before Feyenoord stepped in to bring him to Rotterdam for a reported fee in the region of six million euros.