Antwerp HubAntwerp starts mountain camp with full squad and Praet in top form
Antwerp began the first camp day in the mountains with 29 players, including midfielder Dennis Praet who completed the full training after a brief operation. The team blended veteran goalkeepers, young prospects and an Ecuadorian trialist, making the session a diverse showcase.
Who took part in the training and why was Niels Devalckeneer absent?
The group comprised 25 outfield players and four goalkeepers. Besides regulars Senne Lammens and Kristof Thoelen, the Japanese Taishi Brandon Nozawa and 15‑year‑old Lowie Piselé were present. Niels Devalckeneer missed out due to a minor injury; he must rehabilitate for two weeks. Mohamed Bayo, who recently returned to Rijsel, was no longer in the squad.
How did the young Ecuadorian defender Fricio Caicedo perform?
The 17‑year‑old Fricio David Caicedo Jaramillo, a solid Ecuadorian defender, earned a trial at Antwerp. He trained alongside PSG defender Willian Pacho, also Ecuadorian. Although he has yet to feature in an official match, Caicedo displayed his physical presence and received positive feedback from staff coach Robert Molenaar.
What does the training mean for Antwerp's future?
Coach Stef Wils stressed that the mountain camp is preparation for the upcoming competitive weeks, where rainy weather is expected. Assistant coach Robert Molenaar delivered an intensive ball drill, while Faris Haroun remains absent for personal reasons. Uzbek winger Mukhammadali Urinboev followed an individual program and will be officially introduced soon.
| Category | Number of players |
|---|---|
| Outfield | 25 |
| Goalkeepers | 4 |
The first field session lasted an hour, with a sudden thunderstorm breaking out just before kickoff, after which the sun broke through. The weather is seen as a possible omen for the rest of the week, with further training sessions scheduled for both morning and afternoon.
