From Charleroi exile to Gand return: Cornelis’ second chance under De Mil

Rik De Mil has reunited two former collaborators at KAA Gent, naming Hans Cornelis as his assistant coach just months after dismissing him at Sporting Charleroi. The move follows the arrival of Dwight Waeytens, who returns to Gand’s technical staff after nine years at the club’s academy.

Cornelis, previously sacked by Charleroi in April, had managed only four wins in thirteen league matches and averaged 1.12 points per game. His dismissal left him without a role until De Mil called him back to Gand, where the two had first worked together.

Waeytens, meanwhile, brings nine seasons of Gand youth coaching experience to his new role, including spells with the U14 and U15 teams. The club highlighted his work with Matisse Samoise as part of his development path.

The club’s sporting director, Kjeld Fort, framed the appointments as a commitment to technical excellence. “We firmly believe in the importance of a high-quality, well-trained technical staff,” Fort said. “With Hans, we welcome someone who brings rich experience and values that match our winning mentality.”

A club statement emphasised the shared football philosophy between Cornelis and De Mil. “Their successful past collaboration and shared convictions provide a solid foundation to pursue Gand’s sporting ambitions together,” it read.

Cornelis’ return marks a swift reversal of fortune. After taking interim charge of three matches at Charleroi, he was confirmed in January following unexpected draws against Union Saint-Gilloise and Racing Genk and a win at Anderlecht.

His departure from Charleroi came shortly after, leaving him free to pursue new opportunities. Gand’s decision to re-engage him underscores the trust between the two coaches and the club’s willingness to rebuild internally.

The reshuffle at Gand follows the exit of Timothy Derijck from the technical staff, creating space for Waeytens and Cornelis to join De Mil’s set-up. Both appointments signal a renewed focus on continuity and youth development under the current leadership.

Kjeld Fort added that Cornelis embodies the club’s standards: “His experience and alignment with our winning mentality make him a key addition to the team.”