Charles Vanhoutte, at 27 years old, transferred to OGC Nice this summer from Union Saint-Gilloise. He made a successful debut in the 1-0 victory over FC Nantes last weekend, where he earned the man-of-the-match award. The Belgian international recently shared his insights on the move, his aspirations for the World Cup year, and his new responsibilities within the club.
Vanhoutte on Joining Nice
“I believe my time at Union had reached its natural conclusion. I had achieved everything there – winning the league, the cup, and the supercup. It felt like the right moment to step up to a more competitive league, one of Europe`s top five. Many teams here compete in the Champions League. I really pushed to make this transfer happen. When Nice contacted me, I immediately informed Union`s management of my desire to join them.”
He continued, explaining the negotiation process: “I had a conversation with the head coach and was instantly convinced. Discussions with Union`s management followed; I respect them, and they reciprocated that respect. We had a productive dialogue. Initially, my departure was considered non-negotiable, with the door seemingly closed. However, I requested that they make an effort for me, considering my contributions to USG. They honored that request. They acknowledged it was late in the transfer window but promised to see what they could do, and they eventually found a replacement. Honestly, I hadn`t expected to be able to come here. But either way, I was in a winning situation: I would either move here and play in a stronger league and the Europa League, or remain at USG and compete in the Champions League. Ultimately, it was fate. I`m here now, and I`m very content.”
Vanhoutte on Belgium and World Cup Hopes
“By moving here, I think I`ve enhanced my chances of participating in the World Cup, but everything hinges on my on-field performances. This is a higher-tier league, meaning more people will be watching me. Yet, the World Cup isn`t my primary focus right now. My goal is simply to play well, and any national team call-up would be an added bonus.”
Regarding conversations about the league, Vanhoutte noted: “Were there talks with Rudi Garcia? Not before the transfer, but after I joined, we spoke briefly, not just with the head coach, but also with his assistants. They have extensive experience with French teams. He conveyed to me that this is an excellent league with many strong clubs, demanding higher physical and technical standards. They expressed satisfaction with my decision.”
Reflecting on his journey, Vanhoutte shared: “I received my first call-up to the Belgian national team at 26. I consider my career path to be somewhat unconventional. I faced difficulties in my youth (due to my physique, which led to me repeating the U15 level). I never imagined I`d be achieving what I am today. My ambition is to maintain that hunger for success. If someone had told me I`d eventually play for Cercle Brugge, where I had signed… it`s never enough. You always strive for more. That`s my driving ambition, my mindset.”
“My thoughts aren`t currently on the World Cup, though. My focus is on the club. We are competing in three tournaments, and we aim to progress as far as possible in each, with the squad we have. We possess a strong team with good depth and healthy competition. I simply want to contribute to as many victories as possible for the team.”
Vanhoutte on His Role at Nice
“I`m not an outspoken individual, but I am a winner, and I detest losing. I will always offer guidance to my teammates to help them. Our defense is quite young, with the exception of Dante. There are always small improvements to be made, and I communicate that to them because I also rely on them; being directly in front, I need them to relay information. I simply want to demonstrate my winning mentality.”
He further elaborated on his integration with the team`s tactics: “I had a discussion with the manager (Franck Haise). He thoroughly outlined his expectations for our play, both in and out of possession, and during turnovers. His vision was very clear. He hasn`t asked me to perform any specific role beyond playing my natural game and assisting the team. My footballing philosophy aligns with his. Providing assistance isn`t solely about defending; it also involves offering options when we have the ball. That`s crucial.”
“I was aware that there were talented players here, but what truly surprised me was the exceptional quality of both the training sessions and the players themselves. We have an outstanding team, and we`ll need everyone`s contribution in the upcoming matches.”
