Anderlecht do not want young star to go to the U17 World Cup

Key Takeaways:

• Anderlecht is reluctant to release Nathan De Cat for the U17 World Cup.
• Head coach Besnik Hasi has publicly discussed the situation.
• The announcement comes ahead of Anderlecht’s match with Sint Truiden.
• De Cat’s international opportunity is in conflict with his club obligations.
• The story was originally published on October 18, 2025, via Yahoo! News.

The Club’s Concern

Speaking ahead of Anderlecht’s clash with Sint Truiden this weekend, head coach Besnik Hasi addressed the growing conversation about young midfielder Nathan De Cat. With an invitation to the U17 World Cup potentially awaiting De Cat, Anderlecht has made it clear that they are hesitant to release their emerging talent for the tournament.

The Potential Impact on the Lineup

The timing of this dilemma is notable. Anderlecht’s match against Sint Truiden adds immediate pressure on first-team members, including promising prospects. Losing a player of De Cat’s caliber, even temporarily, could affect the team’s performance and squad depth—especially if the club hopes to maintain momentum in domestic competitions.

De Cat’s Role and Promise

Nathan De Cat has drawn attention for his midfield creativity. Though the full reasons behind Anderlecht’s reluctance have not been detailed, his importance to the team suggests they are aiming to keep him available. His absence could leave a gap in midfield that the coaching staff might prefer to avoid.

Coach Besnik Hasi’s Perspective

Besnik Hasi has confirmed discussions regarding De Cat’s situation but has not publicly elaborated on the club’s exact stance beyond indicating reluctance. “Speaking ahead of Anderlecht’s clash with Sint Truiden,” he was asked about the prospect of De Cat missing key fixtures for a World Cup appearance. The coach’s comments highlight how such decisions can be complicated, balancing player development with the team’s immediate needs.

Weighing Club and Country

For a young player, the U17 World Cup can be a significant milestone, offering invaluable experience on the international stage. Still, Anderlecht’s cautious approach underscores the club’s desire to protect its squad and season objectives. This tension is not uncommon in professional soccer when international duties coincide with critical club matches.

What Comes Next

As of now, no final decision has been publicly confirmed. Whether De Cat ultimately departs for the U17 World Cup remains to be seen. Whatever the outcome, the story underscores the complexities young talents face when choosing between international and club commitments—particularly through the lens of one of Belgium’s most recognized football clubs.