NAC Breda is facing a significant change as Carl Hoefkens leaves the club for OH Leuven. The 47-year-old coach had previously promised to stay at NAC after their relegation from the Eredivisie. This promise now seems to hold little weight, as the deal with OH Leuven is nearly finalized. Hoefkens, who still had a contract until mid-2027, has chosen to return to his home country of Belgium. This comes as a surprise to NAC Breda fans, who hoped he would help the club fight back for promotion.

During his time at NAC Breda, Hoefkens was clear about his intentions. He spoke about the need to fight for promotion together with the club and supporters. However, the allure of OH Leuven, where he will succeed Felice Mazzu, proved too strong. Mazzu had kept the club in the top Belgian league, but the management was dissatisfied with the style of play.

With Hoefkens' departure, NAC Breda must now quickly search for a new coach. The club hopes that the new appointment can help them return to the Eredivisie as soon as possible. Hoefkens has extensive experience in the Belgian league, having previously held positions at major clubs like Club Brugge and Standard Liège. The future of NAC Breda now hinges on the next steps they take in their search for a new manager.