What happened during the second camp day?

Antwerp kicked off on Tuesday 7 July with an intense training session in Iserlohn, where sporting director Marc Overmars made an unexpected appearance. The drill featured 3‑vs‑3 duels, push‑ups and an extra running segment. Christopher Scott left the session early, but the rest of the 26‑man squad carried on.

Why is the Iserlohn location significant?

After four summers in Waidring, the Great Old chose the German sixth‑tier side FC Iserlohn this year. Better pitches and proximity to the German border give a fresh setting for the new‑season prep. The venue also lets players encounter a different style of play, useful for the upcoming Jupiler Pro League challenges.

Who stood out during training?

Interim captain Faris Haroun shouted "Bon ballon" after a quick attacking drill, while Youssef Hamdaoui trained separately due to an ankle issue. Nineteen‑year‑old Nigerian Orseer Achihi worked alone, raising questions about his role this season. Young keepers Taishi Nozawa and Niels Devalckeneer also got extra ball contact.

What does this mean for upcoming competitive matches?

The hard‑working session and Overmars’ presence signal Antwerp’s intent to be sharp. The club recently secured a 2‑0 win over KVC Westerlo (2026‑05‑23) and sits on a 2W‑2D‑1L run, with two consecutive victories. If players bring the fitness and tactical tweaks from Iserlohn, Antwerp can handle early‑season pressure well.

How did staff react to Scott’s departure?

Medical staff escorted Scott to the side, with initial signs showing no serious injury. Coach Thomas Franken stayed composed, stressing that the group should focus on the upcoming practice match against Diederik Geypen. He noted that individual absences, like Hamdaoui’s, won’t heavily affect the collective preparation.

Which players are in the spotlight?

The defence featuring Semm Renders, Thibo Somers and Yuto Tsunashima worked hard in duels. Midfielders Andreas Verstraeten and Idrissa Keita anchored the centre, while the attack with Farouck Adekami, Daniel Mejia and Ali Unriboev generated most chances. The blend of veterans and youth promises a dynamic season for Antwerp.