‘I never expected it to go like this’ OH Leuven midfielder who almost quit professional football signs contract extension through to 2028 | OneFootball

OH Leuven have announced that midfielder Wouter George has signed a new contract until 2028. The midfielder, who came over from Gent in the summer of 2022, has had a breakout season with the side. The 23-year-old has played 16 games this season, having spent the past few seasons playing for the sides U23 team in the lower reaches of Belgian football. He has clearly impressed Chris Coleman since the former Wales manager arrived, with George having started a handful of games and regularly appearing off the bench.

In an interview with the clubs website, George revealed that he almost quit professional football. His main aim this season had been to play regularly for the second team, but after impressing he was promoted to the first team and has not looked back. George said ‘I started without expectations, I mainly wanted to get fit again and play as many minutes as possible with the U23 to feel like a footballer again. The difference between ten months ago and where I am now is enormous. From almost quitting to being a professional footballer. That is super positive. I never expected it to go like this, but if you give it your all and keep believing, anything is possible’.

George will now be hoping to push for a regular starting place next season. Another young midfielder, Ezechial Banzuzi, is set to depart for RB Leipzig at the end of the season. His departure will leave a spot open in central midfield that George could certainly look to compete for. Coleman appears keen to give players a chance to impress during the play-offs ahead of next season. This contract extension is evidence that George is part of the head coaches plans going into the 2025/2026 campaign.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson