Victor Vandenbroucke, an 18-year-old talent from Jong Gent, has decided to pause his international career with Honduras for the time being. The player received his first senior call-up this summer but did not feature in four Nations League matches.
Vandenbroucke explained his decision. "I have noticed that at this moment I do not feel that this is my place," said the youngster. He was on the bench twice and had to watch from the stands on two other occasions. The player stressed his choice is not born from dissatisfaction. "With this, I absolutely do not want to shortchange Honduras and it changes nothing about the warmth and respect I have for the country and its people," he stated.
Vandenbroucke's focus is now entirely on his club. This season he has played eight matches for Jong Gent in the Challenger Pro League, scoring one goal and providing one assist. His main goal now is to increase his playing time from the current 315 minutes and accelerate his development with KAA Gent's reserves. The player does not rule out a future return. "This decision does not necessarily mean I am closing the door forever," said Vandenbroucke.
The 18-year-old also remains eligible for the United States and Belgium, nations he previously represented at youth level. His immediate future, however, lies with Jong Gent, whose next match is on October 6 against Club NXT. KAA Gent's first team currently sits second in the Jupiler Pro League with 19 points from seven games. Their recent form is excellent with four wins and one draw in the last five league matches. The full standings are available online.
The first team's next assignment is an away fixture at Zulte Waregem on October 10. The Buffaloes' squad, including the progress of young players like Vandenbroucke, can be followed on our squad page. The player himself is looking ahead to the next Challenger Pro League match with Jong Gent, where he hopes to cement his starting spot.
Read the full report at voetbalfocus.be
