Anderlecht reshapes Stroeykens' role as Bruno pushes him deeper
In the closing minutes of a crucial Europa Conference clash, the crowd at the Jagiellonia Bialystok stadium watched Mario Stroeykens drop deep, leading a coordinated press that helped Anderlecht secure a vital European win. The Belgian midfielder’s shift from an advanced role to a defensive anchor was evident in every tackle and interception.
Earlier this summer, Stroeykens admitted he was no longer certain of his future at Anderlecht. Unsettled by the lack of a clear place in the attacking line‑up, he threw himself into training, determined to earn a new opportunity.
A defensive shift under Vitor Bruno
Coach Vitor Bruno saw the midfielder’s work rate and decided to experiment, deploying him lower on the pitch, occasionally as a number six. This tactical tweak meant Stroeykens was no longer the traditional number ten but a player tasked with shielding the back line.
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“That is the task the coach gave me and I like that position,” Stroeykens told RTBF.
Stroeykens embraces new responsibilities
In his revamped role, Stroeykens focuses on ball recovery, tempo control and monitoring the runs of his teammates. Against Jagiellonia Bialystok his emphasis was on these duties, saying, “I was more involved in ball recovery, controlling the tempo and covering moments when Aasgaard moves forward.” He added, “I often have the ball at my feet and I like that.”
The partnership with fellow midfielder Thelo Aasgaard has also evolved. While Aasgaard now occupies a more advanced position, Stroeykens drops deeper to retrieve the ball, granting Aasgaard freedom to press higher up the field. Their contrasting styles complement each other, enhancing Anderlecht’s midfield dynamism.
Stroeykens credits his renewed place in the squad to relentless effort. “I have worked to get back into the squad. The coach gave me my chance, I took it and we keep working like that to stay in the squad,” he explained, underscoring the determination that has revived his standing at the purple‑white club.